The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics have renewed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse in Nigeria.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Joseph Ikpea, gave the assurance during a familiarisation visit to the Abuja national headquarters of the NDLEA on Monday.
Senator Ikpea, who was received by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Brigadier-General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), alongside members of the management team, assured that the Senate would continue to provide the necessary legislative backing to enhance the agency’s operational capacity, effectiveness and ability to deliver on its mandate.
During the visit, Ikpea commended the leadership of General Marwa, acknowledging the transformation recorded by the agency in recent years. He praised the NDLEA’s renewed efforts in tackling drug trafficking, expanding public awareness campaigns and intensifying measures aimed at reducing drug demand across the country.
The senator also expressed satisfaction with the NDLEA’s public destruction of seized illicit drugs, describing the exercise as a significant step in the fight against criminal networks involved in drug trafficking.
He noted that the destruction of confiscated substances sends “a strong message to criminal syndicates and drug traffickers that Nigeria remains resolute in its determination to combat illicit drug activities,” adding that the action “not only prevent the substances from returning to society but also reinforce public confidence in the agency’s transparency, professionalism, and effectiveness.”
Ikpea commended the dedication and sacrifices of NDLEA officers and personnel nationwide, noting their efforts in intercepting illicit drugs, dismantling trafficking networks, reducing drug demand and creating awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.
He specifically praised the agency for the recent destruction of large quantities of seized illicit drugs in Benin City,
According to him, the operation in Benin City further reflected the achievements recorded under the leadership of General Buba Marwa and deserved the support and commendation of Nigerians.
The senator stressed that drug abuse remained one of the major challenges confronting societies globally, particularly among young people, adding that its consequences affect individuals, families, communities, public health, economic productivity and national security.
He maintained that the fight against illicit drugs required collective efforts, stating that the NDLEA alone could not win the battle without the support of relevant stakeholders.
“The war against drugs cannot be won by the NDLEA alone. It is rather a collective national responsibility that demands sustained commitment, strategic collaboration, and continuous support from all stakeholders,” Ikpea said.
He pledged his commitment to supporting policies and initiatives focused on strengthening drug prevention programmes, rehabilitation efforts, intelligence gathering, public enlightenment campaigns and law enforcement operations.
Responding, General Marwa expressed appreciation to Senator Ikpea for what he described as a historic visit, saying it demonstrated the Senate Committee’s willingness to work closely with the agency in the collective pursuit of a drug-free Nigeria.
The NDLEA chairman highlighted the agency’s achievements, ongoing initiatives and operational challenges, while reaffirming its commitment to protecting Nigerians from the harmful effects of illicit drugs.
Marwa also assured that the agency would continue to provide support, treatment and rehabilitation for individuals battling addiction to enable them to successfully reintegrate into society.
The visit is expected to further strengthen the relationship between the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics and the NDLEA in addressing the growing concerns over substance abuse and enhancing Nigeria’s efforts towards building a safer and healthier society.
