Abuja: The Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics has assured the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of its full support in its ongoing offensive against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this assurance was conveyed through a statement by the NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Mr. Femi Babafemi. The statement was made available following a courtesy visit by the newly appointed Chairman of the committee, Sen. Joseph Ikpea, to the NDLEA national headquarters in Abuja, where he met with the NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa.
Sen. Ikpea, who represents Edo Central Senatorial District, expressed his intention to collaborate with the agency to combat drug abuse and trafficking. He highlighted the importance of legislative support and effective laws to address the drug problem in Nigeria. Ikpea emphasized his commitment to learning and partnering with the NDLEA to rescue individuals from drug abuse through rehabilitation and preventive awareness programs.
In response, NDLEA Chairman Marwa expressed gratitude for the support and pledged the agency’s readiness to collaborate with the committee. He acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by drug-related issues but noted the agency’s successes, such as dismantling major drug cartels and seizing assets of drug barons. Marwa credited these achievements to the support from President Bola Tinubu, the national assembly, and the judiciary.
Marwa reaffirmed the NDLEA’s commitment to proactive measures in reducing drug supply and demand across Nigeria. He welcomed Sen. Ikpea’s chairmanship of the committee, expressing hope for continued progress in the nation’s drug war efforts.