The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, has praised President Bola Tinubu for significantly enhancing the agency’s ability to combat drug abuse and trafficking across Nigeria.
Speaking at a two-day Government-Citizens’ Engagement session in Kaduna on Tuesday, Marwa highlighted the administration’s unwavering support as a key driver behind the NDLEA’s recent successes.
Marwa revealed that drug abuse remains one of Nigeria’s top three challenges, with over 14 million Nigerians grappling with substance abuse issues.
Citing UN figures, he noted alarming prevalence rates across regions: 24.4% in the South-West, 18% in the South-South, 13.8% in the South-East, 13.4% in the North-East, 12% in the North-West, and 10% in the North-Central.
“These numbers are a serious concern,” Marwa emphasized, pointing out that the North-West alone accounts for three million affected individuals, with Kano contributing one million.Since President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, the NDLEA has seen a remarkable boost in its operational capacity.
“The Tinubu administration has done a lot to address drug abuse and trafficking,” Marwa stated. “His support has enhanced our intelligence capabilities, provided modern tools, operational vehicles, and sophisticated weapons to protect our personnel against drug cartels.”
The agency’s workforce has also expanded significantly, now boasting over 15,000 staff members deployed across airports, seaports, highways, and even a newly established Marine Command.
Marwa credited the NDLEA’s expanded reach and effectiveness to the resources and backing provided by Tinubu’s government. “We are everywhere now,” he said, underscoring the agency’s strengthened presence nationwide.
The NDLEA boss also highlighted the administration’s broader commitment to tackling drug-related challenges, which aligns with Tinubu’s earlier pledges to support the agency’s mandate, as expressed during the 2023 Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies in Africa (HONLAF) meeting in Abuja.
As Nigeria continues to battle the scourge of illicit drugs, Marwa’s remarks signal a renewed momentum in the fight, bolstered by strategic government support.
However, with millions still affected, the NDLEA faces an uphill battle to curb drug abuse and trafficking while fostering rehabilitation and prevention efforts nationwide.
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