PSN and NDLEA Strengthen Partnership to Combat Drug Abuse and Protect Public Health in Nigeria

Abuja, Nigeria — The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), led by its President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, FPSN, has paid a strategic courtesy visit to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), to deepen collaboration in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against drug abuse, trafficking, and misuse.

During the meeting, Dr. Ibrahim commended NDLEA’s renewed energy in tackling illicit drug trade, securing national borders, and rehabilitating victims of substance abuse — efforts he described as “vital to strengthening Nigeria’s public health and national security.”

PSN Raises Concerns Over Legitimate Drug Transport Interceptions

The PSN President, however, expressed concern about reports of harassment of licensed pharmacists and distributors during the lawful transportation of medicines.

He attributed such incidents to limited awareness of the pharmaceutical supply chain among some enforcement operatives, emphasizing the need for better coordination between NDLEA and the pharmacy profession.

Proposed Collaboration Framework

To address these challenges, PSN proposed:

• Joint training and capacity-building for NDLEA operatives and pharmacists

• Technical guidance on controlled drug handling

• Inclusion of pharmacists in NDLEA technical committees

• Continuous dialogue to strengthen operational synergy

The Society also supported NDLEA’s ongoing medicinal cannabis research in partnership with the Nigerian Academy of Sciences and requested PSN representation on the committee overseeing the initiative.

NDLEA’s Commitment and New Initiatives

In response, Gen. Marwa welcomed the partnership and directed the creation of a liaison committee between NDLEA and PSN.
He revealed that the Agency currently operates 30 rehabilitation centres across Nigeria, with seven more under construction, and plans to recruit pharmacists in the next cycle to bolster medical services.

Marwa also disclosed ongoing development of certificate courses on drug education and reaffirmed NDLEA’s toll-free helpline (0800 102 030 40) for public assistance.

Addressing Emerging Drug Threats

The NDLEA chief highlighted growing abuse of Tramadol and Pregabalin, noting the existence of illegal factories abroad operated by some Nigerians. He urged PSN to engage NAFDAC to classify Pregabalin as a controlled substance in Nigeria.

Shared Vision for a Safer Nigeria

Both the PSN and NDLEA reaffirmed their shared commitment to responsible drug use, national health protection, and professional collaboration.

“Together, science, security, and public health can build a safer Nigeria.” — Joint PSN–NDLEA Declaration

Group photograph of PSN Delegation and NDLEA Management

Source: Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim (Facebook): https://web.facebook.com/ayuba.t.ibrahim