Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has revealed a comprehensive strategy aimed at tackling the menace of illicit drug cultivation and trafficking while also addressing the environmental damage associated with drug cartels.
During his presentation at the third committee session of the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, USA, Marwa outlined Nigeria’s efforts to combat substance abuse and illicit drug production and trafficking.
Marwa emphasized that illicit drug cartels engaged in drug cultivation were contributing to deforestation and environmental degradation, necessitating a sustainable solution.
To address this issue, the NDLEA is developing an alternative development plan that will offer cannabis farmers better options, including agricultural loans and improved seedlings.
Moreover, Marwa expressed concerns about the growing online activities of drug traffickers, particularly on the dark web, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Addressing this challenge requires international collaboration and capacity-building efforts to counter the expanding threat.
Nigeria is also strengthening its legal framework by amending relevant drug laws to enhance its ability to combat drug trafficking effectively.
The NDLEA chief stressed the importance of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, as exemplified by the signing and renewal of memoranda of understanding with various countries and agencies. These agreements have facilitated intelligence sharing, exchange programs, joint operations, and capacity-building initiatives.
Marwa underscored the NDLEA’s commitment to identifying gaps and building bridges to dismantle drug trafficking cartels while providing access to treatment and counseling services. Policies to protect vulnerable groups, including women, children, and displaced persons, will be implemented, and law enforcement efforts will be intelligence-led and human rights-centered.
Furthermore, Marwa emphasized the agency’s focus on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure that communities are safe, healthy, and peaceful.
He emphasized that Nigeria is adopting a whole-of-society approach to counter the challenges of drug trafficking, aligning with the 2030 SDG agenda, which promotes the rule of law, health, peace, and justice.
Marwa also highlighted drug demand reduction strategies to mitigate the stigmatization and discrimination faced by people with drug use disorders.
Initiatives such as the 24/7 toll-free call center, early prevention programs in schools and communities, and the Unplugged Drug Program in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the MTN Foundation are being actively pursued.
Additionally, Marwa highlighted the implementation of the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) 2021–2025, which involves stakeholders at all government levels and aims to disrupt drug trafficking cartels while targeting illicit drug assets and wealth.
The War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign and the involvement of non-governmental organizations and civil society groups have raised awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the need to address it.
In summary, the NDLEA is spearheading a multifaceted approach to combat drug cartels, protect the environment, and address the societal and health consequences of drug abuse, all in line with international and domestic goals for a safer, healthier, and more just society.
