*Nigerian Vice-President (Prof.) Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, says ‘we are winning this war… but it will involve even greater investment in focus and determination for the long haul’

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

In regard to the renewed offensive against drug traffickers by the anti-narcotics regulatory agency, Vice-President (Prof.) Yemi Osinbajo has declared that Nigeria is currently winning the war against drug trafficking and drug abuse.

ConsumerConnect reports Prof. Osinbajo stated this in his message on the occasion of the 2022 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking with theme, “Addressing Drug Challenges in Health and Humanitarian Crises”.

Mohamed Buba Marwa, Chairman/CEO of NDLEA

Osinbajo said that the days of dependency on hard substances were numbered in the West African country.

His obvious optimism is said to have been premised on the renewed vigour of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the commitment of the Federal Government, and the support of development partners to combat drug abuse.

“We are winning this war. The days of the scourge of drug abuse and dependency are clearly numbered, but it will involve even greater investment in focus and determination for the long haul.

“NDLEA, especially in the last two years, under the leadership of General Mohamed Buba Marwa, has been fiercer and sharper in its determination to stamp out drug abuse and trafficking in the country. His vision and strong resolve have given the war against drug trafficking and abuse new energy, purpose and clearer direction.”

The Vice-President also stated: “I am glad to hear that in 2021, about 8,000 drug users were counselled and rehabilitated by the NDLEA, and in the first half of this year alone, over 11,000 drug users have been counselled and treated.

“We must maintain a multi-dimensional and holistic approach to tackling drug abuse.”

Regarding the approach that ensures the realisation of the objective, he said: “The New Normal offers us opportunities for increased innovation in tackling this menace, through technology-based monitoring systems for promptly detecting and addressing drug market changes, and also accelerating mobile outreach programmes, remote consultation and treatment for those who suffer from drug use disorders and are without the appropriate care.”

In his remarks at the event, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, Chairman of MTN Foundation and former Minister for Health promised the telecommunication firm’s continued support for NDLEA in its efforts at ridding Nigeria of illicit drugs and substances.