Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has emphasized that the ongoing amendment of the NDLEA Act holds immense potential in bolstering the agency’s efforts against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking across Nigeria.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Drug Control meeting in Abuja, Marwa highlighted the significance of the proposed legislative changes. He underscored the need for increased organizational capability to combat the menace of drug abuse, emphasizing the importance of addressing funding challenges that currently limit the agency’s effectiveness.
Marwa commended the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in implementing the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) 2021-2025, acknowledging their contributions towards achieving the goals outlined in the plan.
Providing an overview of NDLEA’s activities and achievements in 2023, Marwa highlighted significant progress in both supply reduction and demand reduction efforts. Notable achievements included the arrest and conviction of thousands of drug traffickers, seizure of illicit drugs, and rehabilitation of individuals affected by drug abuse.
In addition to legislative amendments, Marwa also highlighted other initiatives aimed at combating drug-related issues, such as the hosting of international conferences, establishment of helplines, and training programs for key stakeholders.
The meeting also featured remarks from representatives of international organizations, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), who lauded Nigeria’s efforts in advancing drug control measures.
In a bid to address the escalating challenges posed by drug trafficking and abuse, the IMC issued a communique calling for urgent action, including the declaration of a state of emergency to mobilize resources and enhance coordination among stakeholders. The communique also emphasized the importance of strengthening treatment services, raising awareness, and fostering greater collaboration in combating drug-related issues nationwide.