The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Nigeria has reported positive results in the war against illicit drugs and trafficking in the country. Commander of Narcotics for the FCT, Kabir Tsakuwa, shared this information during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
Tsakuwa highlighted the efforts made by the Federal Government to combat illicit drug abuse and trafficking, with particular emphasis on manpower enhancement. He mentioned that around 2,500 cadets are currently undergoing training at the Regional Academy for drug control in Jos, while an additional 2,500 cadets have recently completed training as Narcotic Agents and Narcotic Assistants at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) College in Katsina.
In September, the NDLEA, with the full support of the Federal Government, hosted the 31st meeting of all Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa (HONLAF) in Abuja. Tsakuwa expressed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to the country’s fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking, with the promise of providing necessary tools to the agency.
He also mentioned that a proposed amendment to the agency’s Act, in its final stage at the National Assembly, is expected to further strengthen the country’s fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking. This amendment would introduce stringent punitive measures for drug offenses.
The NDLEA FCT Command has received significant support from the Federal Capital Territory Administration, which has helped the agency combat drug peddlers and black spots in the region. Tsakuwa expressed the command’s readiness and commitment to ridding the FCT and its surroundings of drug abuse and illicit trade.
He emphasized the importance of addressing the drug problem, as it has connections to various criminal activities, including terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery. Tsakuwa also acknowledged the productive relationship with the judiciary, which has led to timely case handling and convictions.
The NDLEA FCT Command is determined to continue its efforts to ensure the overall safety and security of the Federal Capital Territory.