NDLEA's chief, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), revealed that the agency is crafting strategies to shut down drug cartels, safeguard the environment from the harmful impacts of illegal drug production, and combat substance abuse.
Speaking at the 78th UN Nations General Assembly session, Marwa emphasized Nigeria's commitment to tackle the issue of illicit drugs and their impact. He stressed the need for collaborative efforts and skill-building to counter this growing threat.
Marwa underscored the environmental damage caused by illicit drug cultivation, citing deforestation and degradation. As part of NDLEA's plan, they aim to offer cannabis farmers alternative options like agricultural loans and improved seeds for legitimate crops.
He also highlighted the escalating online activities of drug traffickers, especially on the dark web due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Marwa stressed the importance of global cooperation to address this challenge effectively.
Nigeria is actively enhancing its legal framework with ongoing amendments to pertinent drug laws. Marwa pointed out the expanded cooperation through memoranda of understanding with countries and agencies, which facilitates intelligence sharing, exchange programs, joint operations, and capacity-building.
He emphasized the agency's dedication to identifying gaps and dismantling drug trafficking networks while providing treatment and counseling services. Marwa stressed the need for policies to safeguard vulnerable groups such as women, children, and displaced individuals.
Marwa highlighted the whole-of-society approach Nigeria is adopting to counter drug trafficking challenges, aligning with the 2030 SDG agenda. This approach prioritizes the rule of law, health, peace, and justice.
In addition to ramping up law enforcement, the NDLEA is actively promoting evidence-based drug prevention, treatment, and care programs. This comprehensive approach aims to mitigate the challenges posed by narcotic drugs in society.
Marwa shared the progress made in early prevention programs in schools and communities, in line with SDG 3's objective of promoting good health and well-being. He emphasized the importance of equipping young people with essential coping skills for success in life.
Collaborating with partners like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the MTN Foundation, the NDLEA is advancing the Unplugged Drug Programme in schools.
Marwa highlighted the implementation of the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) 2021–2025, which involves stakeholders at all levels of government. This strategic document employs an intelligence-led model to disrupt drug trafficking cartels.
He also spoke about the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign, providing a platform for anti-drug abuse enlightenment efforts. This balanced approach addresses both demand reduction and supply reduction efforts.
Lastly, Marwa informed the UN assembly about NDLEA's collaborations with various groups, including NGOs, CSOs, and traditional and religious leaders, to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit drug consumption and trafficking.
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