The Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen Buba Marwa (rtd), has disclosed that drug abuse is responsible for all forms of criminality in the country.
Marwa stated this on Monday while speaking at a media briefing in Abuja to flag off activities to mark the International World Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The NDLEA Chairman emphasized that drug abuse can be likened to a hydra-headed monster standing in the way of Nigeria’s progress as a nation.
Marwa further called on Nigerians to take up the fight against drug abuse and trafficking, saying the NDLEA could not do it alone.
He said, “The simplest contribution that we ask of every patriotic citizen is what is captured by the theme of this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking: ‘Share Facts On Drugs, Save Lives.
“We must avail ourselves of every opportunity to drive the message home to Nigerians about the importance of having a drug-free country.”
The NDLEA boss also stated that his organization would continue to take action against drug abusers and traffickers in the country.
He said, “At the same time, it is equally important to make our message unmistakably clear to those involved in the trafficking of illicit substances, and also the cartels, barons and traffickers, that it is time for them to quit or face a tough consequence.”
Marwa said since he took over the leadership of the agency, he had set a machinery in motion to reposition it.
“I am glad to report to you today that after five months, we are making a definite headway in repositioning the NDLEA for efficiency and effectiveness.
On morale boosting for officers and men, Marwa said, “We have succeeded in boosting the morale and confidence of officers and men of the NDLEA through practical steps taken to address welfare and career stagnation issues.
“To this end, we instituted, among other measures, a bi-monthly assessment and cash-backed award for best performing commands to motivate officers and men on the field.
Explaining that that the agency had recently promoted 3, 506 officers, the NDLEA boss said some officers’ promotion had been stagnated for long periods of time – “10, 15 and even 20 years on one rank.”
“Major administrative steps were taken to restore the visibility of the agency for local and international partnerships. And in five months, we have made appreciable progress.
“So far, the image of the Agency has tremendously improved, so much so that today, people are now aware of the existence of the NDLEA unlike before,” Marwa added.
Speaking at the event, the Country Representative, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) , Oliver Stolpe called on individuals, communities and various organisations all over the world to join the global observance against illicit drugs.
Stolpe said it was important to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represented for society, urging the public to share facts on drugs to help save lives.
He said, “Do your part and combat misinformation by sharing the real facts on drugs – from health risks and solutions to tackle the world drug problem, to evidence-based prevention, treatment and care.
“Every year, UNODC issues the World Drug Report, full of key statistics and factual data obtained through official sources, a science-based approach and research.
“UNODC will continue to provide facts and practical solutions to address the current world drug problem, and remains committed to attaining a vision of health for all based on science. By working together, we can tackle the world drug problem,” he added.
