The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Joseph Ikpea, on Monday June 15, 2026, paid a working visit to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), at his office in Abuja.
Ikpea who commended NDLEA’s commitment to expanding public awareness campaigns against drug abuse, promised to continue to push for necessary legislative backing to strengthen the Agency’s capacity, improve operational effectiveness, and enhance its ability to discharge its mandate efficiently.
He expressed satisfaction with the NDLEA’s public destruction of confiscated drugs across the states, adding that it sends a strong message to criminal syndicates and drug traffickers that Nigeria remains resolute in its determination to combat illicit drug activities, prevents the substances from returning to society but also reinforce public confidence in the agency’s transparency, professionalism, and effectiveness.
Ikpea who noted that drug abuse remained one of the most serious threats facing modern societies, particularly among the youths who represent the future of the nation, pointed out that the consequences of drug abuse extend beyond the individual, affecting families, communities, public health, economic productivity, and national security.
He insisted that the war against drugs cannot be won by the NDLEA alone, stressing that it is rather “a collective national responsibility that demands sustained commitment, strategic collaboration, and continuous support from all stakeholders.”
He therefore pledged his readiness to support policies and initiatives aimed at strengthening drug prevention programmes, rehabilitation efforts, intelligence gathering, public enlightenment campaigns, and law enforcement operations.
Responding, General Marwa expressed appreciation to Senator Ikpea for what he described as an historic visit, stating that it was a clear demonstration of the Senate Committee’s willingness to work closely with the agency in the collective pursuit of a drug-free Nigeria.
The NDLEA boss, who highlighted some of the agency’s achievements, ongoing initiatives, and operational challenges, reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians from the harmful effects of illicit drugs and ensuring that individuals battling addiction were provided with the support, treatment, and rehabilitation needed to reintegrate successfully into society.
Observers have described the familiarisation visit as both timely and strategic, particularly at a period when concerns over substance abuse among young Nigerians continue to attract widespread national attention.
Many believe that a stronger working relationship between the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics and the NDLEA will significantly enhance Nigeria’s anti-drug efforts and contribute meaningfully to building a safer, healthier, and more productive society.
