ECOWAS and CRISA hold regional conference on substance use

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission and the Centre for Research and Information on Substance Abuse (CRISA) convened the 16th Biennial International Conference on Drugs, Alcohol and Society in Africa in Abuja, Nigeria. Held from October 21 to 22, 2026, the conference focused on substance use research and data systems to address emerging drug trends and strengthen prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation efforts.

Dr. Daniel Amankwaah, Head of the ECOWAS Drug Prevention and Control Division, reported that as of September 2026, 12 drug treatment and rehabilitation centres across 10 Member States have undergone renovations and equipment upgrades. Additionally, over 300 health professionals have been trained in evidence-based prevention and treatment.

The initiative also emphasizes alternatives to incarceration by promoting social reintegration and rehabilitation for individuals who use drugs and interact with the criminal justice system. ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to improving regional data through the West African Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (WENDU).