The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has charged all stakeholders involved in the ongoing development of the next National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP 2026-2030) to ensure that the strategy document addresses new and emerging threats that sustain the illicit drug trade in Nigeria.
The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa gave the charge during his opening remarks at a five-day workshop to develop the fifth NDCMP for the country, held in Niger State on Monday, October 6, 2025.
The residential retreat was funded by the Economic Community of West African States (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. 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 the illicit financial flows that sustain the drug trade,” Marwa explained.
He reminded all the stakeholders that the workshop offered a rare opportunity to deliberate, analyse and agree on strategic priorities that would shape the trajectory of Nigeria’s response 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,” Marwa noted, urging all participants to bring their expertise, experience, and commitment to bear.
The NDLEA boss stated that the workshop was not just about producing another document but about charting a collective vision to safeguard the health, security, and wellbeing of Nigerians.
He reaffirmed the Agency’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.”
Marwa further thanked the ECOWAS Commission for sponsoring the workshop and other partners, including the European Union, UNODC, civil society organisations, professional bodies, and the private sector for their continued collaboration.
“Together, we are shaping a future where Nigeria and West Africa will be safer, healthier, and more secure,” he added.
On his part, the UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Ousmane, who was represented by Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga, commended Nigeria’s drug control efforts so far.
“Yet, we are all aware that the drug situation continues to evolve. Global and regional dynamics — whether related to new psychoactive substances, organized crime networks, or the impact of conflict and economic pressures — all shape local realities. Our response must therefore be adaptive, coordinated, and inclusive. The Master Plan is the instrument through which this can happen.
“This workshop offers a unique opportunity to review the draft chapters, harmonize perspectives, and ensure that the priorities identified 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,” Ousmane stated.
He also lauded the leadership of the NDLEA, the Federal Ministry of Health, and all members of the inter-agency working groups for their dedication and the expertise demonstrated throughout the process, expressing confidence that their work would serve as a compass for coordinated action over the coming years.
Similarly, the ECOWAS Commission 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 Nigeria’s current National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) will expire this year and a new plan needs to be developed to address the emerging drug threats, trafficking patterns, and the increasing burden of substance use disorders. The new NDCMP will effectively respond to current and future drug-related challenges.
“The ECOWAS Commission, in line with its mandate to support Member States in addressing drug-related issues, is providing technical and financial assistance to Nigeria in the elaboration of the new NDCMP. 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,” Sarr remarked.
He added: “This support is 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.”
Other stakeholders who spoke at the ceremony included representatives of the Federal Ministries of Education, Health, Agriculture, Budget and Planning, NACA, NAFDAC, EFCC, and NFIU.
