Abuja: Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, has expressed optimism that the recent amendment of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act by the National Assembly will enhance Nigeria's drug control efforts once it is signed by President Bola Tinubu. Fagbemi made these remarks during the opening of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Drug Control meeting in Abuja.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Minister was represented by Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation. Fagbemi highlighted the unprecedented efforts by the NDLEA over the past four years, citing significant achievements such as arrests, seizures, convictions, and the implementation of evidence-based drug demand reduction interventions. These efforts have been supported by the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) social advocacy platform, which aims to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse within communities.

Fagbemi also noted the consistent progress made on a global scale through international cooperation and partnerships, which have revitalized the fight against drug abuse in Nigeria. He emphasized the Federal Ministry of Justice's collaboration with the NDLEA to ensure the national legal system effectively supports the agency's drug control efforts. The finalization of the NDLEA Act amendment is expected to significantly boost the agency's ability to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking. The ministry is also focused on managing the proceeds of crime to dismantle drug traffickers' financial networks.

Acknowledging the contributions of other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders, Fagbemi praised the Inter-Ministerial Committee's role in coordinating a government-wide approach to drug control. He urged the expansion of prevention programs to target the root causes of drug abuse, especially among youths, women, and marginalized groups.

In his remarks, NDLEA Chairman retired Brigadier General Buba Marwa acknowledged the funding challenges affecting the full implementation of the National Drug Control Master Plan 2021-2025. However, Marwa reaffirmed the agency's determination to achieve its objectives, highlighting the amendment of the NDLEA Act as a promising development that will strengthen the agency's institutional capacity for drug supply reduction. The amended Act has passed through the National Assembly and awaits Presidential assent.