Brig Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has urged the UN to continue its resolute efforts to combat illegal drug networks that endanger international peace, stability, and future.
Marwa cautioned that the illegal drug trade can no longer hold the globe captive while speaking during the 80th United Nations General Assembly Plenary Session of the Third Committee in New York, United States, on Monday, October 13, 2025.
He clarified that notable arrests of well-known traffickers had resulted from Nigeria’s collaboration with multiple nations.
“Nigeria prioritizes international cooperation and intelligence sharing due to the transnational nature of the drug problem,” he said. We maintain solid partnerships with the UNODC, EU, DEA, INL, NCA, BKA, and others, and we have signed memorandums of understanding with a number of nations. With complete respect for human rights, these partnerships have resulted in significant seizures, the arrest of well-known traffickers, and successful prosecutions.
“Madam Chair, the illegal drug trade can no longer hold the world captive. To destroy the networks endangering our peace, stability, and shared destiny, we must unite and be resolute.
Nigeria is already responding with strategic, evidence-based interventions to curb the menace, he said, while acknowledging that the theme of the 80th UNGA Plenary Session of the 3rd Committee correctly recognized that the global drug problem is a multifaceted issue that calls for coordinated and collective action.
“We have expanded care and support for individuals affected by drug use through treatment in rehabilitation centers, opioid substitution therapy, and safer needle exchange programs, while strengthening measures against money laundering linked to drug proceeds,” he said.
In Nigeria, cannabis is still the most often abused substance. In order to solve this, we are putting the Alternative Development Program into action, working with communities to find legal ways to support themselves in place of illegal cannabis growing, all the while advancing environmental preservation and food security. Our War Against Drug misuse (WADA) campaign keeps bringing together all facets of society to raise awareness across the country, reaffirming our shared responsibility to shield communities and families from the risks associated with drug misuse.
Additionally, we are addressing new issues including the use of the Dark Web for trafficking and the development of new psychoactive substances. By stopping the diversion of precursor chemicals and demolishing covert labs, Nigeria is taking firm action against the illegal manufacture and trafficking of methamphetamine.
“Our National Drug Control Master Plan’s successful execution has improved stakeholder collaboration and produced quantifiable outcomes. In an effort to promote social justice, Nigeria runs a toll-free drug contact center that is open around-the-clock and has counselors available in the main languages of Nigeria. This program fights the stigma attached to drug use and fills the treatment gap.
