Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its efforts to rid the country of illicit drug trafficking and abuse, which pose serious threats to the nation’s health, security, and development. Under the leadership of retired General Buba Marwa, the agency has adopted a holistic approach involving enforcement, prevention, treatment, and research.
According to the agency’s website, the NDLEA has seized over 2,000 kilograms of illicit drugs and arrested more than 2,000 suspects in various operations nationwide since January 2021. Some of the drugs seized include cannabis, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, tramadol, and codeine. The agency has also destroyed several drug farms and laboratories and confiscated assets and money linked to drug trafficking.
The NDLEA has also embarked on a massive public awareness campaign to educate Nigerians on the dangers and consequences of drug abuse and addiction. The agency has partnered with various stakeholders, such as religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, media houses, and celebrities, to sensitize the public on the need to shun drug abuse and support the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
Furthermore, the NDLEA has improved its capacity to provide treatment and rehabilitation services to drug-dependent persons. The agency has established 15 drug treatment centers nationwide, where drug users can access counseling, therapy, and medication. The agency has also trained its staff and other health professionals on evidence-based practices for drug demand reduction.
In addition, the NDLEA has enhanced its research and intelligence capabilities to generate data and information that can inform policy and decision-making on drug control issues. The agency has collaborated with local and international organizations, such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the European Union (EU), and the United States (US), to conduct surveys, studies, and assessments on drug trends and patterns in Nigeria.
The NDLEA’s efforts have been commended by various stakeholders, who have expressed their support and solidarity with the agency. The Nigerian government has also pledged to provide more resources and political will to enable the agency to achieve its mandate of eradicating illicit drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria.
The NDLEA’s chairman, General Marwa, has vowed to sustain the momentum and ensure Nigeria becomes a drug-free nation. He has urged Nigerians to join hands with the agency in this noble cause, saying, “Together we can win the war against illicit drugs.”
Source: Tribune
