NDLEA chairman seeks stronger collaboration with traditional and religious institutions as agency expands alternative development programme for cannabis farmers.

The fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking in Nigeria has received renewed support in Edo State, following commitments by Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, to back the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s (NDLEA) anti-drug campaign.

The commitments were made during an advocacy visit to Benin City by NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, who called for stronger partnerships among government institutions, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to address the growing challenge of substance abuse.

Governor Okpebholo pledged his administration’s support for the agency’s activities, describing illicit drugs as a major driver of criminal activities and a threat to public safety.

In recognition of his commitment to the campaign, the governor was decorated as a Grand Ambassador of the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), an NDLEA-led initiative aimed at mobilising Nigerians against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

At the palace of the Oba of Benin, Marwa also sought the support of traditional institutions in strengthening public awareness and community-based efforts to prevent drug abuse.

He warned that more than 15 million Nigerians were battling drug abuse, stressing the need for collective action to tackle the problem and prevent its devastating effects on individuals, families and communities.

The NDLEA chairman also highlighted the agency’s Alternative Development Programme, which seeks to encourage cannabis farmers to abandon illicit cultivation and embrace legitimate agricultural activities.

Under the initiative, farmers are being encouraged to cultivate alternative crops, including cassava, yam and maize, with government support to promote sustainable livelihoods.

Marwa’s visit underscores the importance of cooperation between federal and state governments, traditional institutions and local communities in addressing drug-related challenges.

The involvement of Edo’s political and traditional leadership is expected to strengthen the campaign’s reach, particularly through community engagement, public education and support for alternative sources of livelihood.

The NDLEA has continued to promote WADA as part of broader efforts to reduce drug demand, combat trafficking and build a society less vulnerable to substance abuse.

NDLEA Chairman Mohamed Buba Marwa secures anti-drug campaign support from Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Oba of Benin during an advocacy visit to Benin City.