Abuja: The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on faith-based organisations, families, and corporate bodies to intensify their support for the prevention of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria. The NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, made the call during a thanksgiving service held at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Wuye, Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the service was part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The theme for the 2025 World Drug Day is ‘Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.’ Marwa, represented by the Secretary of the NDLEA, Shadrach Haruna, acknowledged the sacrifice by personnel and thanked God for the lives of the agency’s officers.
Marwa highlighted the critical role of parents in drug abuse prevention, urging them to instil sound moral values in their children and support them in making the right choices. He stressed that prevention begins at home and that parents are the first line of defence.
The NDLEA Chairman also urged individuals struggling with drug addiction to seek help through the NDLEA’s anonymous support line, assuring that it is available 24/7 for counselling and rehabilitation, not for arrest. He commended faith-based groups for their role in the agency’s drug demand reduction strategy and noted that similar prayers and engagements were held in mosques earlier in the week.
Marwa reiterated the agency’s commitment to reducing drug use in the country, emphasizing that collective action, moral responsibility, and spiritual support are essential in combating the scourge of drug abuse.
Pastor Edwin Etomi, the Senior Regional Overseer of MFM, called on faith-based organisations, families, and all sectors of society to actively support the NDLEA in tackling substance abuse in Nigeria. He urged other places of worship to emulate MFM’s example by engaging in efforts that empower youths and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Etomi also addressed the issue of stigma, urging against condemning victims of drug addiction and encouraging families and institutions to offer support and inclusion. He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, highlighting the potential that could be unlocked through collective responsibility and strategic collaboration with institutions like NDLEA.
The service, attended by NDLEA officers and church members, featured prayers for the divine protection of operatives on the frontline and the success of the agency’s ongoing nationwide efforts.
