November 14, (THEWILL) – The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control have renewed their partnership to curb substance abuse and safeguard public health.
The pact was sealed on Wednesday through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja.
NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Marwa (rtd), described the agreement as a “significant turning point in the shared endeavour to improve operational effectiveness, protect public health, and guarantee community safety.”
Marwa said the MoU would establish a framework to enhance the sharing of intelligence, facilities, and expertise, thereby boosting the ability to tackle the interconnected challenges of drug abuse and counterfeit products.
“We are taking significant steps towards harnessing our collective strengths. This alignment of strategies and resources will better equip us to address the growing menace of drug abuse and ensure that only safe, approved, and genuine products reach consumers”, he said.
Marwa emphasized the complementary roles of both agencies, with the NDLEA focusing on combating illicit drug production, trafficking, and abuse, while NAFDAC regulates and ensures the safety of food, drugs, and other consumables.
In her remarks, NAFDAC Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye echoed Marwa’s sentiments on the importance of collaboration.
She noted that stakeholders could no longer afford to work in isolation on issues related to substance abuse, illicit drug trafficking, and public health.
“We may not be taking illicit drugs, but we may have relatives or friends affected by it. This is a matter of national security. Illicit drugs directly impact the central nervous system, leading to societal ills such as violence, terrorism, and banditry”, she said.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
