By Mercy Akuba
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics,
Senator Joseph Ikpea, has assured the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of continued legislative support to strengthen its capacity, improve operational effectiveness, and enhance its ability to combat illicit drug trafficking and abuse across Nigeria.
Senator Ikpea gave the assurance on Monday, June 15, 2026, during a familiarisation visit to the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, where he was received by the agency’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier-General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), alongside members of the management team.
Speaking during the visit, Senator Ikpea commended General Marwa for the remarkable transformation witnessed within the agency in recent years, describing his leadership as instrumental in repositioning the NDLEA as a more proactive and effective institution in the fight against illicit drugs.
He praised the agency’s renewed determination in tracking down drug traffickers, expanding public enlightenment campaigns, and intensifying efforts aimed at reducing drug demand nationwide.
The senator particularly lauded the NDLEA’s public destruction of confiscated illicit drugs, noting that such actions send a strong warning to criminal syndicates and drug traffickers that Nigeria remains resolute in its commitment to combating drug-related crimes.
According to him, the destruction exercises not only prevent the seized substances from finding their way back into circulation but also reinforce public confidence in the agency’s transparency, professionalism, and effectiveness.
Senator Ikpea further expressed appreciation for the dedication, sacrifices, and patriotism demonstrated daily by NDLEA officers and personnel across the country.
He commended their relentless efforts in intercepting illicit drugs, dismantling trafficking networks, reducing drug demand, and creating awareness about the dangers associated with substance abuse.
The lawmaker also applauded the agency for the recent destruction of large quantities of seized illicit drugs in Benin City, Edo State, describing the exercise as a bold demonstration of the NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to protecting communities from the harmful effects of narcotic substances.
He noted that the successful operation in Benin City underscored the significant achievements being recorded under General Marwa’s leadership and deserved the support of all well-meaning Nigerians.
Senator Ikpea emphasized that drug abuse remains one of the most serious threats confronting modern societies, particularly among young people who represent the future of the nation.
He observed that the consequences of drug abuse extend beyond individual users, impacting families, communities, public health, economic productivity, and national security.
“The war against drugs cannot be won by the NDLEA alone,” he said.
“It is a collective national responsibility that requires sustained commitment, strategic collaboration, and continuous support from all stakeholders.”
He 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, Brigadier-General Marwa expressed appreciation to Senator Ikpea for what he described as a historic visit, noting that it demonstrated the Senate Committee’s willingness to work closely with the agency in pursuit of a drug-free Nigeria.
The NDLEA Chairman highlighted some of the agency’s achievements, ongoing initiatives, and operational challenges, while reaffirming its commitment to protecting Nigerians from the harmful effects of illicit drugs.
He also stressed the importance of providing treatment, rehabilitation, and support for individuals struggling with drug addiction to enable their successful reintegration into society.
Observers have described the visit as timely and strategic, particularly at a period when concerns over substance abuse among Nigerian youths continue to attract widespread national attention.
They believe that stronger collaboration between the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics and the NDLEA will significantly boost Nigeria’s anti-drug campaign and contribute to building a safer, healthier, and more productive society.