Marwa Takes Drug Abuse Advocacy Campaign to Edo State, Calls for Stronger Collective Action
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), has taken the agency’s drug abuse prevention and advocacy campaign to Edo State as part of intensified efforts to tackle substance abuse, discourage illicit drug consumption and protect young Nigerians from the dangers of drug dependence.
The advocacy campaign is aimed at strengthening public awareness and encouraging individuals, families, community leaders and government institutions to work together in addressing the growing challenges associated with drug abuse.
During the engagement, the NDLEA leadership emphasised the importance of prevention, education and community participation in reducing the demand for illicit substances. The campaign also seeks to draw attention to the social, economic and health consequences of drug abuse, particularly among young people.
Marwa has consistently maintained that the fight against drug abuse requires more than arrests and prosecution of offenders, stressing the need for sustained public enlightenment, early intervention, rehabilitation and support for people battling substance dependence.
The agency’s decision to extend its advocacy efforts to Edo State also underscores the importance of strengthening partnerships with state governments, traditional institutions, religious organisations, schools, youth groups and civil society organisations.
Through these collaborations, the NDLEA aims to promote drug-free communities, encourage responsible behaviour and ensure that residents understand the dangers associated with the misuse of psychoactive substances.
The campaign is also expected to encourage parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the behaviour of their children, maintain open communication and seek professional assistance whenever signs of substance abuse are identified.
Beyond prevention, the NDLEA continues to promote treatment, counselling, rehabilitation and social reintegration for individuals affected by drug dependence, recognising that recovery requires sustained support and access to appropriate healthcare services.
The advocacy initiative forms part of the agency’s broader national strategy to address both drug supply and demand through enforcement operations, public education and stronger institutional cooperation.
By taking the campaign to Edo State, Marwa is reinforcing the message that combating drug abuse is a shared responsibility that requires continuous public engagement and coordinated action.
The initiative is expected to strengthen awareness, encourage community participation and support the broader national objective of reducing substance abuse and building a healthier, safer and more productive society.
