The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has begun the process of developing Nigeria’s next National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP 2026–2030), with its Chairman, Mohamed Buba Marwa urging stakeholders to ensure the new strategy tackles emerging threats sustaining the illicit drug trade.
Marwa gave the charge on Monday, October 6, 2025, in Niger State, while declaring open a five-day workshop to draft the fifth National Drug Control Master Plan. The residential retreat is funded by the ECOWAS Commission and supported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
“The task before us over the next few days is both strategic and historic,” Marwa said. “The drug problem continues to evolve, and so must our response. The NDCMP 2026–2030 must be visionary yet practical; comprehensive yet targeted; and nationally owned yet regionally and globally aligned. It must build on the achievements of the past while boldly addressing new and emerging threats — from synthetic drugs to dark-web trafficking, from poly-substance use to illicit financial flows that sustain the drug trade.”
He reminded participants that the workshop provides a rare opportunity to deliberate, analyse, and agree on strategic priorities that will shape Nigeria’s response to drug-related challenges for the next five years.
“It is here that we will identify what has worked, acknowledge the gaps, and design innovative pathways for the future,” he added.
Marwa called on all participants to bring their expertise, experience, and commitment to the process, stressing that the exercise is not merely about producing another policy document but about charting a collective vision to safeguard the health, security, and well-being of Nigerians.
He reaffirmed the NDLEA’s readiness to provide leadership, coordination, and technical support to ensure that the new Master Plan is not only developed but also effectively implemented.
“I also pledge that we will continue to strengthen collaboration with our partners, both within Nigeria and across the ECOWAS sub-region, for we know that the drug challenge recognises no borders,” he said.
Marwa thanked the ECOWAS Commission for sponsoring the workshop and appreciated other partners — including the European Union, UNODC, civil society organisations, professional bodies, and the private sector — for their sustained collaboration. “Together, we are shaping a future where Nigeria and West Africa will be safer, healthier, and more secure,” he noted.
Speaking at the event, the UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Ousmane, represented by Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga, commended Nigeria’s drug control efforts so far but warned that global and regional dynamics continue to evolve.
“Whether related to new psychoactive substances, organised crime networks, or the impact of conflict and economic pressures, these factors shape local realities. Our response must therefore be adaptive, coordinated, and inclusive. The Master Plan is the instrument through which this can happen,” he said.
Dr. Ibanga added that the workshop provides a unique platform to review the draft chapters, harmonise perspectives, and ensure that identified priorities reflect both national realities and international standards — including those enshrined in the three international drug control conventions, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the African Union Plan of Action on Drug Control.
He commended the leadership of the NDLEA, the Federal Ministry of Health, and all members of the inter-agency working groups for their dedication and expertise, noting that their work will serve as a compass for coordinated action in the coming years.
Also speaking, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, represented by Dr. Daniel Amankwaah, noted that Nigeria, as a key stakeholder in regional drug control efforts, has taken proactive steps to develop national strategies aligned with international best practices.
“The current National Drug Control Master Plan will expire this year, and a new plan needs to be developed to address emerging drug threats, trafficking patterns, and the increasing burden of substance use disorders,” she said.
She explained that ECOWAS, in line with its mandate to support member states in addressing drug-related issues, is providing technical and financial assistance to Nigeria for the development of the new Master Plan.
“This initiative aligns with the objectives of the ECOWAS Drug Prevention and Control Programme and the broader regional efforts to strengthen drug demand and supply reduction mechanisms,” she stated.
According to her, the support represents a strategic step toward strengthening Nigeria’s drug control framework and aligning it with regional and international best practices.
“The ECOWAS Commission remains committed to supporting Nigeria in this effort, ensuring that the new National Drug Control Master Plan is robust, evidence-based, and effectively addresses the country’s drug-related challenges,” she assured.
Other stakeholders present at the opening ceremony included representatives of the Federal Ministries of Education, Health, Agriculture, Budget and Planning, as well as NACA, NAFDAC, EFCC, and NFIU.
