NDLEA, AMJON seek synergy against drug abuse
By Uzor Odigbo
Sequel to the menace of drug abuse among citizens, especially the youths of Nigeria, the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria, (AMJON) has met with the leadership of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), towards finding solutions to the prevalence of wrong usage of drugs in the country.
Welcoming the AMJON delegation, the NDLEA Commander Tin Can Island Port Command Mitchell Ofoyeju expressed hope that AMJON, with recognized capacity in accurate information dissemination, has the pedigree to work with the NDLEA and achieve tangible results.
Commander Ofoyeju disclosed that N134 billion worth of drugs was seized in 2024, and over 60kg of Cannabis Sativa concealed in mattresses intercepted by the Tin Can Command through the use of technology and deployment of sniffer dogs to detect drugs shipped by barons.
“I must let you know that the coming of our Chairman has seen dramatic changes in terms of operational capabilities, funding and training for all cadre of NDLEA staff. This has greatly enhanced our operations and our global rating in the war against drug trafficking cartels”.
“In the area of drug demand reduction, NDLEA is working very hard in communities to warn on the dangers of drugs and its health implications. Drug trafficking and abuse is not just a criminal threat but a global health issue which must be addressed”, Commander Ofoyeju stressed.
He also disclosed that Nigeria used to be a drug transit country but this is no longer the case following the efforts and organizational pedigree of the NDLEA Chairman.
Earlier, AMJON Executives led by its President Mr. Kelvin Kagbare within the week met with and had insightful discussions with the Tin Can Island Port Strategic Command of the NDLEA.
The Commander of the Command, Ofoyeju, and other top officials of the Command warmly received the AMJON delegation but with a stern military mien and business like disposition.
Kagbare told the NDLEA Commander that AMJON visit is intended to partner the Agency to tackle drug abuse and appreciate the Agency’s efforts in the War Against Drug Abuse, (WADA), in Nigeria.
The AMJON team expressed delight at the efforts of Brig. General Mohammed Buba Marwa, (rtd), CON, OFR, Chairman/CEO, NDLEA for the
Numerous breakthroughs and successes recorded under his watch thus far and pledged to lend its support, partner with the Agency and expand the advocacy on drug abuse reduction.
“We have seen efforts and appreciable impact by the Marwa led administration on the war against drug abuse in the country as officers and men of the NDLEA are now more visible on strategic locations across the country in their efforts at executing the WADA initiatives”
“We salute the Chairman and his management team on the laudable accomplishments and the awareness created among citizens, Kagbare said.
AMJON’s President was later decorated as a WADA Ambassador by Commander Ofoyeju on behalf of the NDLEA Chairman to further escalate the War Against Drug Abuse in Nigeria
