Buba Marwa, chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on Nigerians to resist what he described as the “toxic pop-culture that glamorises abuse of illicit substances” among young people.
Marwa spoke in Abuja
on Thursday during the inauguration of the agency’s radio station, Clean Beat
91.5FM, at its headquarters.
He urged stakeholders and Nigerians to support NDLEA’s war
against drug abuse (WADA) campaign aimed at preventing substance abuse from
becoming normalised among the youth.
“We recognise that behind every statistic of drug abuse is a
human being. A vulnerable teenager seeking escape; a broken family searching
for answers; a brilliant mind derailed but capable of redirection. Through this
station, we will drive our narrative softly but firmly,” Marwa said.
“We will counter the toxic pop-culture that glamourises drug
abuse by replacing it with a vibrant, alternative culture—one that celebrates
sobriety, showcases real stories of recovery, and provides accurate,
life-saving information.
“Let us make no mistake: the stakes could not be higher. If
we do not control the narrative today, the consequences tomorrow will be
catastrophic.
“Substance abuse is a hydra-headed monster that feeds
insecurity, decimates public health, cripples economic productivity, and
compromises the very future of our workforce.”
The NDLEA chairman described the station as a platform that
would reinforce the message that a drug-free Nigeria is achievable.
He noted that while enforcement efforts are important,
public education and prevention remain critical in tackling substance abuse.
“And that is precisely why Clean Beat 91.5 FM was conceived.
In a fast-evolving digital age, radio remains an incomparable asset,” Marwa
said.
It is intimate. It is immediate. It bypasses barriers and
speaks directly to the citizen—in their living rooms, on their daily commutes,
in the bustling marketplaces, and in the quiet moments of introspection.”
Marwa also acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu
for approving the station’s budget, as well as the contributions of Nuhu
Ribadu, the national security adviser (NSA), the National Broadcasting
Commission (NBC), international partners, and NDLEA staff member, who,
according to him, helped bring the project to life.
Speaking at the event, Cheikh Touré, United Nations Office
on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) country representative for Nigeria, represented by
Akanidomo Ibanga, praised the initiative and described radio as an effective
advocacy tool.
“Through this initiative, the NDLEA has demonstrated its
continued commitment to innovative and people-centred approaches that
complement enforcement efforts with education, advocacy, and dialogue,” Touré
said.
“Through this platform, NDLEA is taking the drug control
message directly to the people — into homes, communities, schools, and streets.
“This initiative also aligns strongly with the National Drug
Control Master Plan and reinforces the leadership of NDLEA in driving a
balanced, health-oriented, and security-conscious approach to drug control in
Nigeria.”
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