Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has pledged continued support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in their joint efforts to combat drug abuse across all 27 local council areas of the state. The assurance came during a three-day visit by NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), focusing on the campaign against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
Commending the governor’s achievements, Marwa highlighted the purpose of his visit—social advocacy to engage stakeholders in the fight against substance abuse at both the national and grassroots levels. The NDLEA boss emphasized the need to reduce the demand for illicit drugs, addressing the nexus between drug abuse and security challenges.
Governor Zulum acknowledged Marwa’s leadership qualities and affirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthen collaboration with NDLEA. In further engagements, Marwa urged the Shehu of Borno to support the fight against illicit drugs and proposed drug tests for intending couples to discourage substance abuse. The monarch pledged support and committed to implementing the idea in his emirate.
Similar support was received from the Council of Ulamas and the Christian community, endorsing drug control measures. Marwa visited the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, encouraging collaboration with NDLEA in the fight against insurgents’ access to illicit drugs.
In meetings with local government chairmen, Marwa emphasized collaboration as NDLEA prepares to establish its presence in all local councils nationwide. The university community was not exempt, as Marwa called for drug tests for students, gaining support from the Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, Prof. Aliyu Shugaba.
Stakeholders from various sectors convened in a meeting at the university’s Indimi Hall, where Marwa and his team interacted with security agencies, students, transport unions, women groups, Youth Corp members, civil society organizations, and more.
Femi Babafemi, Director of Media & Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja, released this statement on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.