By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics has pledged full legislative support to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in its ongoing campaign against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking across Nigeria.
The commitment was made during a courtesy visit to the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja by the newly appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee, Senator Joseph Igiagbe Ikpea.
Speaking during the visit, Senator Ikpea said the committee was committed to strengthening collaboration with the agency and gaining a deeper understanding of its operations.
He commended the leadership of NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), describing him as a disciplined and dedicated public servant.
The senator praised Marwa’s service record as a former Military Governor of Borno State, Military Administrator of Lagos State, and his current efforts in leading Nigeria’s anti-drug campaign.
Ikpea said the committee would support the NDLEA through stronger legislation, public awareness initiatives, and rehabilitation-focused programmes aimed at addressing the growing challenge of drug abuse, particularly among young people.
“We are here to partner with you so that we can collectively address drug abuse, rehabilitate affected persons, and strengthen preventive measures through public enlightenment,” he said.
He assured the agency of the Senate’s readiness to provide the legislative backing needed to improve its capacity to tackle drug-related crimes nationwide.
Responding, Marwa thanked the committee for the visit and reaffirmed the NDLEA’s commitment to intensifying efforts against drug trafficking and substance abuse.
He noted that drug abuse remains a major factor driving insecurity and other social problems in the country, adding that the agency has recorded significant successes in dismantling drug cartels, arresting traffickers, and confiscating assets linked to criminal activities.
Marwa attributed the agency’s achievements to the support of President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and other stakeholders.
He also expressed confidence that closer collaboration with the Senate Committee would further strengthen Nigeria’s fight against illicit drugs through a combination of supply reduction and demand reduction strategies.
