Nigerian Elites Urged To Join NDLEA’s Fight Against Drug Abuse

Lagos, Nigeria – The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Lt. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), has issued a strong call to Nigeria’s elite to actively participate in a nationwide effort to combat drug abuse and trafficking.

Speaking at the Island Club Business Forum in Lagos on Tuesday, Marwa emphasised that tackling this pervasive issue requires a “whole-of-society” approach, demanding the involvement of all citizens.

“This is not a challenge for government alone,” Marwa stated in his keynote address.

“The future of Nigeria belongs to us all. We expect society to complement our efforts by preventing young people from experimenting with drugs.”

He urged attendees, including business leaders, students, and parents, to become advocates against drug abuse, spreading awareness about the dangers of substance misuse.

Marwa highlighted the alarming forecast from the UNODC’s 2021 World Drug Report, predicting a 40% increase in drug use in Africa by 2030, particularly among the 25-34 age group.

He painted a stark picture of the potential consequences, stating that Africa could face a major drug problem in the future, impacting the continent’s progress.

“The future could be bright or bleak…depending on the amount of work we are willing to do today,” he warned.

The NDLEA chief showcased the agency’s significant achievements over the past three years since his appointment, citing the arrest of 52,901 traffickers (including 52 barons) and the conviction of 9,034 individuals.

He revealed that those arrested included prominent figures from the business community, social circles, and even government officials, illustrating the deep-seated nature of the problem.

The agency also seized 8.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs and destroyed 1,572 hectares of cannabis farms during this period.

Other speakers at the forum, including consultant psychiatrist Prof Harry Ladapo and President of the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy Prof Lere Baale, further underscored the severity of drug abuse.

Omoba Rotimi Martins, Chairman of the Island Club, praised Marwa’s commitment and described drug abuse as a menace that threatens Nigeria’s youth, families, and socio-economic fabric.

He emphasised the need for sustainable solutions beyond enforcement and legislation, calling for a society that offers hope and support to its citizens.

The forum served as a platform to discuss the devastating impact of drug abuse and explore collaborative solutions to this escalating crisis.