Chairman of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Buba Marwa, has called on the international community to strengthen collaboration in the global fight against drug trafficking and organised criminal networks.
Gatekeepers News reports that speaking at the 80th plenary session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Third Committee in New York on Monday, Marwa emphasised that the transnational nature of the drug trade demands a united and coordinated global response.
He noted that Nigeria remains committed to fostering international partnerships and intelligence sharing, adding that NDLEA has entered into several memoranda of understanding with different countries while maintaining close cooperation with organisations such as United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), European Union, and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
He said, “These collaborations have led to major seizures, arrests of high-profile traffickers, and successful prosecutions — all with full regards to human rights.”
“Madam Chair, the world can no longer be held hostage by the illicit drug trade. We must stand together — resolute and united — to dismantle the networks that threaten our peace, stability, and collective future.”
Marwa highlighted Nigeria’s efforts to address the drug menace through a comprehensive, evidence-based strategy that includes prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation.
He said, “We have strengthened measures against money laundering linked to drug proceeds, while expanding care and support for individuals affected by drug use through treatment in rehabilitation centres, opioid substitution therapy, and safer needle exchange programmes.”
He identified cannabis as the most commonly abused substance in Nigeria and said the government is addressing the issue through its Alternative Development Programme.
Marwa said, “We are engaging communities to replace illicit cannabis cultivation with legitimate livelihoods, while promoting food security and environmental protection.”
The NDLEA chairman also spotlighted the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, which he described as a nationwide mobilisation effort encouraging all sectors to take responsibility for combating drug misuse.
He said, “We are also tackling emerging challenges — including new psychoactive substances and the use of the Dark Web for trafficking.”
“Nigeria is taking decisive action against the illicit production and trafficking of methamphetamine by preventing the diversion of precursor chemicals and dismantling clandestine laboratories.”
Marwa further stated that the effective implementation of Nigeria’s National Drug Control Master Plan has boosted inter-agency collaboration and improved outcomes.
He said, “In advancing social justice, Nigeria operates a 24/7 toll-free drug call centre, staffed by professionals offering counselling in major Nigerian languages. This service bridges the treatment gap and combats stigma associated with drug use.”
