In a compelling address to the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Monday, October 2nd, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Nigeria, revealed the agency’s proactive strategies to counter the dire environmental consequences of illicit drug cultivation and production. Marwa’s announcement came as part of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat substance abuse and drug-related criminal activities.
According to Femi Babafemi Director, Media & Advocacy NDLEA, Marwa highlighted the severe environmental harm caused by drug cartels engaged in illicit drug cultivation, emphasizing their contribution to deforestation and subsequent environmental degradation. He explained that the NDLEA was actively working to introduce alternative development initiatives aimed at discouraging drug cartels’ involvement in illicit drug production. These initiatives include providing cannabis farmers with access to agricultural loans and improved seedlings.
The NDLEA chief also drew attention to the alarming rise in online drug trafficking activities, particularly on the dark web, during the COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed the need for international collaboration and capacity-building to effectively counter this growing threat. Nigeria is also in the process of amending its drug laws to strengthen its legal framework against drug-related offenses.
Marwa highlighted the agency’s expanding bilateral and multilateral cooperation efforts, including the signing and renewal of memoranda of understanding with other countries and agencies. These agreements have facilitated intelligence sharing, exchange programs, joint operations, and capacity building, among other initiatives.
The NDLEA’s commitment to bridging gaps in drug enforcement and providing access to treatment and counseling services was underscored by Marwa. He stated that additional policies would be implemented to protect vulnerable groups such as women, children, and displaced individuals. The agency also intends to maintain a leading role in the fight against drug trafficking through intelligence-led and human rights-centered law enforcement, while fostering collaboration with stakeholders in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Marwa emphasized Nigeria’s whole-of-society approach in addressing drug trafficking challenges, aligning with the 2030 SDG agenda’s principles of promoting the rule of law, health, peace, and justice. In addition to ramping up law enforcement efforts, the NDLEA is actively promoting evidence-based drug prevention, treatment, and care programs.
Among the key achievements noted by Marwa was the introduction of a 24/7 toll-free call center, providing individuals with access to quality counseling, treatment, and care from the comfort of their homes. The agency has also made significant progress in early prevention programs within schools and communities, aiming to build the capacity of young people and equip them with essential life skills.
Marwa concluded by highlighting the ongoing implementation of the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) 2021–2025, which focuses on a multi-agency intelligence-led model to disrupt drug trafficking cartels and target illicit drug assets and wealth. Additionally, he mentioned the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign, which engages non-governmental organizations and civil society groups to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
The NDLEA’s proactive approach and commitment to addressing both drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts were commended by Marwa. The agency’s inclusive efforts have succeeded in reaching various segments of society, including traditional leaders, students, opinion leaders, and religious figures, as part of its mission to combat drug abuse and its associated perils.
