In a significant step to curb the growing menace of drug abuse in the country, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced that the Federal Government of Nigeria has signed a formal agreement with the Government of India to stop the production of codeine-based cough syrups destined for the Nigerian market.

The agency disclosed this development on Monday, June 24, 2025, during a press briefing held at its Apapa Command in Lagos. Mr. Buba Wakawa, the Apapa Strategic Commander of the NDLEA, made the announcement while addressing journalists as part of activities marking the upcoming International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking, which is scheduled for Thursday, June 26, 2025.

NDLEA Secures Bilateral Pact to Stop Codeine Production at Source

According to Wakawa, this bilateral agreement emerged from the need to block the supply chain of one of the most widely abused pharmaceutical substances in Nigeria. He emphasized that codeine-based syrups, although designed for therapeutic purposes, have been grossly misused and are now contributing significantly to the country’s addiction crisis.

He explained, “As part of our global strategy to reduce drug inflow, Nigeria entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India, which prohibits the manufacturing of codeine-containing syrups by Indian pharmaceutical companies for any Nigerian importer. This preventive step will go a long way in cutting off access to these dangerous drugs.”

Nationwide Prevention Efforts Intensify as Global Awareness Day Nears

Wakawa noted that the annual United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse, observed every June 26, provides an opportunity for nations around the world to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and mobilize action within local communities.

The 2025 theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Cycle,” aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s current strategy, he said, as it encourages investment in early intervention and public sensitization.

“We fully embrace this year’s theme,” Wakawa declared. “It mirrors our national campaign—the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA)—which was initiated by our visionary chairman and chief executive, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd.). Prevention is the foundation of everything we do.”

Drug Epidemic Figures Show Urgency of the Fight

To further highlight the urgency of Nigeria’s drug problem, Wakawa referred to the 2018 United Nations Drug Use Survey, which revealed that 14.3 million Nigerians between the ages of 15 and 64 had used drugs in the preceding year.

He described the data as irrefutable evidence of a national health emergency, stating, “These numbers are deeply alarming. They show that drug abuse is not just a personal problem—it’s a widespread societal crisis. We must respond with both speed and intensity.”

Local and International Collaboration Strengthen Enforcement

In addition to international cooperation, Wakawa confirmed that the NDLEA has strengthened its domestic operations by fostering collaboration with other government agencies. These partnerships ensure continuous sharing of intelligence and coordinated enforcement efforts to intercept illicit drugs at every point of entry.

“Our approach is holistic,” he said. “We work closely with sister security agencies to identify trafficking networks, intercept shipments, and prosecute offenders. Our intelligence network is becoming increasingly sophisticated.”

Community Involvement Remains Key to Success

While the NDLEA continues to advance technical and diplomatic strategies, Wakawa stressed that true success in the war against drug abuse hinges on the involvement of every Nigerian. He urged parents, educators, traditional rulers, faith-based groups, and youth organizations to take active roles in educating young people about the dangers of drug use.

“The fight against drug abuse cannot be won by NDLEA alone,” he asserted. “That’s why we continue to engage a broad coalition of stakeholders across the country. Everyone has a role to play in ending this scourge.”

Agency Praises Support from Global and Local Stakeholders

Wakawa also expressed gratitude to both local organizations and international partners for their continued contributions to Nigeria’s anti-drug campaign. He specifically acknowledged the support provided by foreign governments, donor agencies, and civil society groups, noting that their involvement has helped the agency expand its reach and impact.

“On behalf of the NDLEA, I want to sincerely thank all those who have walked with us on this journey—within and outside the country,” he said. “Together, we are building a future where Nigerian communities can thrive without the shadow of drug abuse.”