NDLEA seeks community partnership to curb drug abuse, illicit cultivation

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called for collective action and inclusive dialogue to tackle the growing challenge of drug abuse, trafficking and illicit crop cultivation in the country.

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, retired Maj.-Gen. Buba Marwa made the appeal in Akure on Tuesday at a town hall meeting with stakeholders.

Marwa explained that the agency’s mission at the meeting was to build a strong community network to support its Alternative Development Project, aimed at providing lawful and sustainable alternatives to illicit crop cultivation.

According to him, finding lasting solutions to societal crises requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including perpetrators, victims, mediators, regulators, communities and law enforcement agencies.

“This town hall meeting is designed to unite us and agree on a friendly, community-centred approach to addressing illicit drugs and related environmental crimes. We are not here to talk at you, but to talk with you,” he said.

The NDLEA boss expressed concern over the rising prevalence of drug abuse in the country, citing the 2018 National Drug Use Survey which revealed that 14.4 million Nigerians aged between 15 and 64 use drugs, representing one in every seven persons within the age bracket.

He said terrorist groups, bandits and other criminal elements often use drugs to carry out violent acts and also engage in drug trafficking to fund their operations.

“We must collectively tackle the drug problem and overpower it. Why planting illicit drugs when you can cultivate legitimate crops, earn a living and live in peace without fear of law enforcement?” he asked.

Marwa emphasised that the project promotes inclusivity by involving illicit crop farmers, vulnerable persons and other community stakeholders in its implementation, while also ensuring ownership and long-term sustainability.

The NDLEA chairman said the agency was shifting from a purely enforcement-based approach to empowerment, offering support to communities that are genuinely willing to abandon illicit cultivation.

In his remarks, Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State appreciated NDLEA for this proactive and people-centred initiative aimed at tackling the interconnected challenges of poverty, drug abuse, insecurity, hunger and underdevelopment in the society.

Aiyedatiwa used the opportunity to assure the agency of continued support and cooperation of the state government towards stemming the tide of drug abuse.

“This engagement could not have come at a better time, as drug abuse remains a serious challenge to public health, economic productivity and social stability in our country.

“Its consequences in our communities cannot be overemphasised as it has resulted in rising crime, youth restiveness and the erosion of our social and collective values.

“It has, therefore, become expedient that we address the root causes of this endemic rather than relying on enforcement mechanisms alone,” he said.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, represented by Regional Director, South-West, Mrs Also Temitayo, appreciated the NDLEA for recognising the strategic role of the ministry in the programme.

Kyari appreciated the crop substitution programme under the Marwa-led NDLEA, saying it will combat insecurity and aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.

Dr Kolo Jonah. Alternative Development Expert of the NDLEA, said the programme would bring sustainable livelihood, food security and preservation of the environment.

The Chairman, Ondo State Council of Obas, Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye II, said the traditional instructions were ready to partner with NDLEA on the programme.

“You all know the consequences of cannabis growing and you should embrace the opportunity made available by the NDLEA,” he said.