The Federal Government is considering the removal of the option of fines for persons convicted of drug trafficking, in a major policy shift aimed at strengthening penalties and deterring drug-related offences in the country.

The proposal, which aligns with long-standing calls by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), is expected to form part of ongoing reforms of Nigeria’s anti-drug legal framework currently before relevant authorities.

NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), has repeatedly argued that allowing convicted drug offenders to pay fines in lieu of imprisonment weakens the impact of the law and fails to serve as an effective deterrent against trafficking and abuse of illicit substances.

Under the proposed change, offenders convicted under Nigeria’s drug laws would face mandatory custodial sentences, eliminating judicial discretion to impose fines as an alternative punishment in certain cases.The development marks a significant hardening of Nigeria’s drug enforcement policy, as authorities intensify efforts to curb trafficking networks and reduce the rising incidence of drug abuse, particularly among young people.

Marwa has consistently maintained that stricter sentencing is necessary to disrupt the profitability of the drug trade, warning that lenient penalties have historically allowed offenders to re-enter the system and continue illegal operations.If adopted, the policy shift is expected to reshape prosecution outcomes in drug-related cases and signal a tougher stance by the government in its ongoing war against narcotics trafficking and substance abuse.

Further details on the legislative process and timeline for implementation are expected in the coming days.