The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), has expressed optimism that the ongoing amendment of the NDLEA Act will significantly boost the agency's capability to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria. He made this known during the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Drug Control meeting in Abuja.
Marwa highlighted the importance of addressing the funding challenges faced by the NDLEA, stating that the amendment of the NDLEA Act will enhance the agency's organizational capability in drug supply reduction. He also commended the IMC for its efforts in implementing the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) 2021-2025 and the collaboration of stakeholders in achieving the goals of the NDCMP.
In his address, Marwa outlined the achievements of the NDLEA in 2023, including the arrest of 13,664 drug traffickers, the seizure of 1.61 million kilograms of illicit drugs, and the destruction of 206.5 hectares of cannabis farms. He also mentioned the successful hosting of the 30th Conference of the Heads of Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa, and the commissioning of the NDLEA toll-free helpline.
Representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) praised the NDLEA for its milestones in enhancing law enforcement, increasing accessibility to treatment, and rolling out prevention measures. They expressed hope that Nigeria's efforts would inspire other countries to intensify the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
The IMC issued a communique at the end of the meeting, calling for a declaration of a State of Emergency to address drug trafficking and abuse. They also emphasized the need to strengthen drug treatment support services, raise awareness on the health risks of drug abuse, and enhance collaboration among stakeholders to address the drug problem effectively.
