Marwa Seeks Global Collaboration To Dismantle Drug Networks

Chairman/chief executive officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Marwa (rtd), has urged the international community to stand together to dismantle criminal drug networks that threaten peace, stability and the collective future of nations.

Addressing the 80th United Nations General Assembly Plenary Session of the Third Committee in New York, Marwa said the world can no longer be held hostage by the illicit drug trade.

He said, “Given the transnational nature of the drug problem, Nigeria prioritises international cooperation and intelligence sharing. We have signed memoranda of understanding with several countries and maintain strong partnerships with the UNODC, EU, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), National Crime Agency (NCA), BKA and others. These collaborations have led to major seizures, arrests of high-profile traffickers and successful prosecutions — all with full regard to human rights.”

In a statement, NDLEA’s spokesperson, Mr Femi Babafemi, quoted his principal as saying, the theme of the 80th UNGA Plenary Session of the 3rd Committee rightly recognised that the world’s drug problem is a multidimensional global challenge that requires coordinated and collective action.

He said Nigeria is responding with strategic, evidence-based interventions to curb the menace.

In his words: “We have strengthened measures against money laundering linked to drug proceeds, while expanding care and support for individuals affected by drug use through treatment in rehabilitation centres, opioid substitution therapy, and safer needle exchange programmes.

“Cannabis remains the most commonly abused drug in Nigeria. To address this, we are implementing the Alternative Development Programme, engaging communities to replace illicit cannabis cultivation with legitimate livelihoods, while promoting food security and environmental protection. Our War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative continues to mobilise all sectors of society in nationwide sensitisation, reinforcing collective responsibility in protecting families and communities from the dangers of drug abuse.

“We are also tackling emerging challenges — including new psychoactive substances and the use of the Dark Web for trafficking. Nigeria is taking decisive action against the illicit production and trafficking of methamphetamine by preventing the diversion of precursor chemicals and dismantling clandestine laboratories.

“The effective implementation of our National Drug Control Master Plan has strengthened stakeholder collaboration and yielded measurable results. In advancing social justice, Nigeria operates a 24/7 toll-free drug call centre, staffed by professionals offering counselling in major Nigerian languages. This service bridges the treatment gap and combats stigma associated with drug use,” he said.