Nigeria's drug control efforts date back to the colonial era, when the British administration implemented regulations against the use of certain substances. After independence, Nigeria ratified several international drug control treaties, including:
In 1989, in response to growing concerns over Nigeria's role as a transit hub for the illicit drug trade, the federal government established the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)[7] through Decree No. 48.[8]
Legal framework
The Nigerian drug policy is underpinned by several key legislative instruments:
NDLEA Act (Cap N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004): Establishes the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and empowers it to combat drug trafficking, enforce drug laws, and promote drug education.[4]
Indian Hemp Act of 1966:[10] Specifically targets the possession and use of cannabis, known locally as Indian hemp.
These laws prescribe strict penalties, including long prison sentences and, in some cases, the death penalty for certain drug trafficking offences.[verification needed]
Enforcement and institutions
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)
The NDLEA is the primary agency responsible for enforcing drug laws in Nigeria. Its functions include arresting offenders, seizing illegal substances, and conducting public awareness campaigns. The agency operates across the country's international borders, airports, seaports, and within local communities.[11][4]
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
NAFDAC regulates the importation, manufacture, and distribution of legal pharmaceuticals, ensuring that they are not diverted for illicit use.[12]
Nigeria has in recent years faced increasing challenges related to drug abuse, particularly among young people. A 2018 National Drug Use Survey conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in collaboration with the Nigerian government, estimated that 14.3 million people (14.4% of the population aged 15–64) had used a psychoactive substance in the previous year.[13][14]
Health and rehabilitation services for drug users remain underdeveloped, though there is growing recognition of the need to adopt a public health-based approach alongside criminal justice measures.[17]
Policy reforms and debates
Nigeria's drug policy has faced criticism for its strong focus on criminalisation and limited adoption of harm reduction strategies. Human rights advocates and public health experts have recommended:
Implementation of harm reduction programmes, such as needle exchange schemes and opioid substitution therapy
The Nigerian government has begun exploring reforms, including initiatives to integrate drug use prevention into school curricula and community outreach programmes.[18][19]
International cooperation
Nigeria collaborates with several international partners, including:
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