The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has emphasized that the fight against drug abuse—a key contributor to Nigeria’s mental health crisis—must be anchored on trust, collaboration, and a compassionate, public health-focused approach.
The message was delivered by the Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), at the Vanguard Mental Health Summit.
NDLEA’s Core Message
- Trust and Collaboration: The NDLEA called for a “whole-of-society approach” to combat drug abuse, stressing that the agency cannot win the fight alone. This requires strengthening partnerships with non-governmental organizations, development partners, faith-based groups, families, and media professionals.
- Decriminalization of Victims: The agency reaffirmed its focus on treating drug addiction as a public health challenge rather than solely a criminal justice matter.
- Practical Intervention: The NDLEA highlighted its establishment of a 24-hour toll-free helpline staffed with licensed clinical psychologists and mental health experts. This service provides free psychosocial support and wellness services to victims and their families in multiple Nigerian languages, emphasizing treatment and recovery over punishment.
- Prevention and Community Focus: The agency also stressed its expanded “War Against Drug Abuse (WADA)” program and the launch of the “Save Our Families” campaign, which focuses on early detection and prevention across communities.
Brig. Gen. Marwa’s keynote addressed the theme of “Substance and Silence: Unmasking the Dual Crisis of Addiction and Suicide,” emphasizing the need to eliminate the stigma that prevents drug users and individuals with mental health issues from seeking necessary treatment.
