The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the seizure of 761,000 tonnes of illicit drugs and substances between January 2021 and March 2024. This was disclosed by the agency’s chairman, Retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, during a special Juma’at service at the National Mosque in Abuja to mark the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Marwa emphasized the importance of prevention in addressing drug abuse, citing the 2018 drug use survey which revealed that 15 million Nigerians abused drugs, three times the global average. He described this as unacceptable and highlighted the need for collective efforts to prevent drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
The NDLEA chairman noted that the agency’s seizures have prevented a significant amount of drugs from reaching the streets, which would have funded criminal activities. He emphasized the need for a two-track approach to prevention, focusing on global and community-level initiatives.
Marwa recommended that parents, traditional institutions, religious bodies, and schools play a crucial role in educating children and young adults about the dangers of drug abuse. He also advocated for random drug tests in schools, tertiary institutions, and even before marriage.
The NDLEA’s efforts to seize drugs, arrest offenders, and seize their assets are crucial in denying availability and access to drugs, Marwa said. He urged everyone to join forces in the fight against drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
The 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is themed “Evidence is Clear, Let Us Invest in Prevention,” emphasizing the need for collective action to address this critical issue.