NDLEA: Marwa enlists traditional rulers and parents in renewed fight against drug abuse

President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has urged traditional rulers, parents and community leaders across the country to play a more active role in combating substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

Marwa made the appeal on Saturday during the celebration of the 10th Akinale Day and the first anniversary of the coronation of the Towulade of Owu Akinale, Oba Oluseyi Ayodeji Adewole Adediran (Otileta I), held in Ogun State.

He said the battle against drug abuse cannot be won by law enforcement alone, stressing that traditional institutions and families have a vital role in protecting young people from the dangers of illicit drugs.

According to him, drug abuse cuts across all social and economic classes, making it imperative for parents to closely monitor their children, identify early signs of substance abuse and strengthen moral values ​​at home.

Addressing young people, Marwa urged them to avoid illicit drugs, warning that substance abuse only worsens life’s challenges rather than providing solutions.

He also called on the royal council and community leaders in Owu Akinale to establish grassroots anti-drug support networks that can deter drug trafficking and at the same time support people battling addiction.

The NDLEA President also expressed concern over the recent discovery of industrial-scale methamphetamine labs allegedly operated by a Nigerian-Mexican drug cartel in forest areas of Ogun and Oyo states.

He appealed to traditional rulers, particularly in rural communities, to be vigilant about activities within their domains, urging them to monitor outsiders operating in forests and ensure adequate background checks of people seeking to acquire agricultural land.

Marwa, who described her participation in the event as a sign of long-standing friendship and admiration for the monarch, commended the leadership of Oba Adediran, stressing that the qualities he has displayed as a youth leader continue to be reflected in his reign.

The event attracted political office holders, traditional rulers and other distinguished guests from within and outside Ogun State.