The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has announced that Nigeria recently entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with India to stop the production of codeine-based syrups intended for import into Nigeria.
At the same time, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying efforts and collaborations to reduce the availability, accessibility, and affordability of drugs.
This was revealed by the Apapa Strategic Commander of the NDLEA, Buba Wakawa, on Monday while addressing journalists at the command. His statement came as part of the activities leading up to the 2025 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.
He noted that the event, scheduled for Thursday, is themed, ‘The evidence is clear: Invest in prevention, break the cycle’.
Speaking further on the event, Wakawa explained that June 26th has been designated by the United Nations as a day to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. It also encourages member countries to take localized actions to engage their communities in efforts toward a drug-free world.
Wakawa emphasized that in order to secure the health and safety of communities, drug issues must be tackled effectively.
“For example, Nigeria has signed an MOU with India to block the manufacturing of cordine-based syrups for any Nigerian importer. So those are the measures that we took at the international level to curtail the influx of these substances into the country,” he said.
He added that the NDLEA continues to share information and intelligence with sister agencies to help stop the importation of such drugs into Nigeria.
According to Wakawa, this year’s theme is highly relevant. “It is also consistent with our War Against Drug Abuse, a novel idea and brainchild of our visionary leader, the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Buba Mohammed Marwa, (Rtd).”
Wakawa also referenced the 2018 United Nations Drugs Survey, which estimated that 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15-64 had used drugs in preceding years. He noted this as undeniable proof of the country’s drug crisis.
He reiterated that the agency regularly shares intelligence to combat the importation of illicit substances.
“It is very worrisome, and it is a challenge to all of us. NDLEA cannot do it alone, that is why we carry along stakeholders to sensitise the public on the dangers and effects of this so that we stem it down,” he said.
Wakawa concluded by appreciating both local and international stakeholders for their continued support in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
