The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, and the Chairman/CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), expressed optimism that the recent amendment of the NDLEA Act by the National Assembly will strengthen Nigeria’s drug control initiatives once signed by President Bola Tinubu.

Their comments came during the opening ceremony of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Drug Control meeting, Wednesday in Abuja.

Fagbemi highlighted the significant efforts made by the NDLEA over the past four years, including substantial arrests, drug seizures, and community awareness programs through the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) platform.

He emphasized the importance of legal support for the NDLEA’s drug control efforts, noting that the amendment will enhance the agency’s capacity to combat substance abuse and trafficking.

Represented by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, Fagbemi acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders and praised state governments for establishing their own drug control committees.

He urged attendees to expand prevention programs targeting vulnerable groups and expressed hope for a collaborative approach to secure a drug-free Nigeria.

Marwa, in his welcome remarks, noted challenges in funding that have affected the implementation of the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) but affirmed the NDLEA’s commitment to its objectives.

He announced that the NDLEA Act amendment is awaiting presidential assent, which will enhance the agency’s capabilities in reducing the drug supply.

He urged stakeholders to remain focused and energized in addressing Nigeria’s complex drug challenges. Marwa reported that significant progress has been made under the NDCMP, including the arrest of over 31,000 drug offenders, extensive drug seizures, and rehabilitation services for nearly 20,000 individuals.

UNODC Country Representative Cheikh Ousmane Toure, represented by Dr. Akani Ibanga, addressed the public health and security implications of drug use in Nigeria, stressing the need for data-driven approaches and effective implementation of the NDCMP to meet pressing challenges related to substance abuse.