‘It’s a moral imperative’ — Tinubu asks NDLEA to step up fight against drug abuse, trafficking

President Bola Tinubu has asked the officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to introduce novel ideas to combat drug abuse and trafficking in the country.

Represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the 31st meeting of Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa (HONLAF) in Abuja on Tuesday, the president said he would provide all the necessary support for the anti-narcotic agency to fulfil its mandate.

“This administration will continue to provide the necessary support, motivation, and tools for the NDLEA to fulfil its mandate,” Tinubu said.

“We understand the connection between the success of the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking and the attainment of a number of goals on our socio-economic and security agenda.

“For us, the commitment to the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse is not just a matter of policy; it is a moral imperative. We recognize that a population at war with drugs is not a dividend but a liability. 

“We believe that the future of our youth, the strength of our institutions, and the well-being of our communities depend on our ability to eradicate this threat.

“So, I must appeal to you to see this gathering as an avenue for the exchange of novel ideas and the development of practical strategies.”

Speaking at the event, Buba Marwa, the chairman of NDLEA, said young people are more prone to drug abuse than older generations.

Marwa added that the danger is doubled considering the unavailability of treatment for people suffering from drug-use disorders. 

He appealed to his counterparts from other African countries on the need for effective partnerships to combat drug abuse and trafficking, saying “we need regional perspectives to enrich the global policy discussion”.

“Drug use disorders are harming health, including mental health, safety and well-being, while the harms caused by drug trafficking and illicit drug economies are contributing to many of these threats, from instability and violence to environmental devastation,” he said.

“Young people are using more drugs than previous generations, and the majority of people being treated for drug use disorders in Africa are under the age of 35. 

“What is worse, the availability of treatment and other services has not kept pace with these developments, and women in particular are suffering from treatment gaps.”