NDLEA, NAFDAC Join Forces to Combat Drug Abuse, Safeguard Public Health

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at curbing drug abuse and tackling counterfeit products in Nigeria.

The MoU, signed at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja, was witnessed by top officials from both agencies, led by NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) and NAFDAC Director General Professor Mojisola Adeyeye.

Describing the agreement as a “significant turning point” in their efforts to safeguard communities and improve public health, Marwa emphasised the complementary roles of NDLEA and NAFDAC.

“While the NDLEA focuses on combating illicit drug production, trafficking, and abuse, NAFDAC is responsible for regulating and ensuring the safety of food, drugs, and other consumables,” Marwa said. “This MoU will strengthen our collaboration, enhancing our capacity to address the dual challenges of drug abuse and counterfeit products.”

He further highlighted the value of pooling resources and expertise. “By sharing vital intelligence, facilities, and skills, we are better equipped to tackle these issues. This MoU aligns our strategies and resources, empowering us to ensure that only safe, approved, and genuine products reach the hands of consumers,” Marwa added.

He urged both agencies to embrace the partnership with enthusiasm and dedication, stressing the importance of open communication and mutual support to fulfil their mission.

Professor Adeyeye, aligning with Marwa’s vision, underscored the necessity of a united front to combat substance abuse, illicit drug trafficking, and other public health challenges.

She warned that the repercussions of drug abuse go beyond the individuals involved, with significant impacts on national security and societal well-being.

“Illicit drugs directly impact the central nervous system, leading to altered behaviours that can result in violence, terrorism, and other serious societal issues,” Adeyeye explained. “Drug abuse can cause domestic violence, poor academic performance, and severe health conditions. As a pharmacist, I know that every drug has side effects, and in severe cases, these can lead to death.”

Professor Adeyeye stressed the importance of breaking down organisational silos to effectively combat these issues.

“We cannot afford to work in isolation. It’s essential for sister agencies to collaborate, and I’m grateful to the NDLEA Chairman for making this partnership a reality,” she said.

The MoU signals a new chapter in inter-agency cooperation, with both NDLEA and NAFDAC committed to creating safer communities across Nigeria.

Through this collaboration, they aim to reduce the prevalence of drug abuse and ensure that Nigerians have access to safe, high-quality products.