By Sharon Akuboh
The Founder and Executive Director of the Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA), Primate Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, has commended the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), and officers of the Agency for their unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking across Nigeria.
Speaking to Weekenders Magazine in an exclusive interview, Ezeanyaeche described the NDLEA’s sustained crackdown on drug cartels, traffickers and peddlers as a clear demonstration of professionalism, courage and patriotism, noting that the Agency has continued to make remarkable strides in protecting Nigerian communities from the devastating effects of illicit drugs.
He said the renewed vigour with which the Agency has pursued its mandate under the leadership of Brig.-Gen. Marwa has restored public confidence in the nation’s fight against drug-related crimes while strengthening national security and safeguarding the future of Nigerian youths.
According to him, the NDLEA has consistently demonstrated that the fight against drug abuse extends beyond arrests and seizures to include preventive education, rehabilitation, counselling and public awareness campaigns aimed at discouraging substance abuse, particularly among young people.
Ezeanyaeche noted that the Agency’s relentless efforts have saved countless lives, disrupted criminal networks and reduced the circulation of dangerous substances capable of destroying families, communities and the nation’s socio-economic fabric.
He urged Nigerians to complement the efforts of the NDLEA by providing credible information to security agencies, supporting anti-drug campaigns and educating young people on the dangers associated with substance abuse.
The AKH-TRACADA Executive Director further appealed to parents, schools, religious organisations, traditional institutions and community leaders to intensify awareness programmes that promote positive values and discourage drug abuse among children and youths.
He reaffirmed AKH-TRACADA’s commitment to collaborating with the NDLEA and other relevant stakeholders in advancing advocacy, public enlightenment, capacity building and policy initiatives aimed at creating a drug-free society.
Ezeanyaeche stressed that the fight against illicit drugs is a collective responsibility, expressing optimism that with sustained collaboration and public support, Nigeria will continue to record significant progress in eliminating drug abuse and trafficking.
He congratulated the NDLEA leadership and its personnel for their resilience, sacrifice and dedication to national service, urging them to remain steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
“The commitment, professionalism and sacrifices of the NDLEA under the leadership of Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa have continued to inspire hope in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. As a nation, we owe the Agency our support and appreciation for its tireless efforts in protecting lives and securing the future of our young people,” he said.