Retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), reported that the agency confiscated 761,000 tonnes of illicit drugs and substances from January 2021 to March 2024.
He made this announcement during a special Juma’at service marking the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the National Mosque in Abuja.
The theme for the 2024 World Drug Day is “Evidence is Clear, Let Us Invest in Prevention.” Marwa highlighted findings from a 2018 drug use survey, revealing that 15 million Nigerians engage in drug abuse, which is three times the global average. He expressed concern over these statistics, emphasizing the need for prevention efforts.
Marwa underscored the pervasive influence of money-making among drug traffickers despite the agency’s efforts to curb drug abuse and trafficking.
He stressed the importance of prevention, advocating for a comprehensive approach involving families, communities, religious institutions, and educational systems.
The NDLEA chairman outlined strategies to combat drug abuse, including educational programs, community engagement, and stringent law enforcement measures. He emphasized the agency’s commitment to reducing drug supply through operations targeting traffickers and seizing their assets.
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