National News

Tinubu: War Against Drug, Must be Embraced by All, Seen as a National Movement

Published

9 months ago

June 26, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Tinubu: War Against Drug, Must be Embraced by All, Seen as a National Movement

By: Michael Mike

President Bola Tinubu has declared that the fight against the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria must be embraced by all as a national movement rather than one for governments alone.

The President stated this in his keynote address at the grand finale of a weeklong programme to commemorate the 2025 World Drug Day held at the Presidential Villa Conference Centre, Abuja on Thursday.

He said d: “Let us also be clear: this fight is not one for governments alone. It must be a national movement—driven by families, faith leaders, civil society organisations, youth groups, community leaders, businesses, and, crucially, people with lived experience. Their voices matter. Their stories inspire. Their leadership is essential.

“At the same time, we must not ignore the deeper roots of this crisis. Drug abuse is tied to poverty, inequality, violence and conflict. To effectively tackle this problem, our approach must be comprehensive. We must foster peace. We must promote inclusive development. And we must uphold human rights every step of the way.”

Tinubu, who was represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume assured that Nigeria stands firmly with the global community in the effort to tame the scourge of drug abuse and its consequences.

He said: “We are committed to working hand in hand with all nations to end this menace and tame illicit trafficking of substances. Together, we can dismantle the systems that sustain this crisis. Together, we can build a future where prevention is strong, treatment is accessible, and recovery is not just possible—but celebrated. There is no doubt that in the past two years, this has been the focus of the renewed hope agenda of our administration; breaking the burden of poverty, uplifting millions out of squalor and caring for the needs of the masses especially our youth population through student loans scheme and other empowerment initiatives.”

The President while commending “the great efforts of the NDLEA, its personnel and the leadership headed by Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) for their globally acclaimed successes not only in the area of drug supply reduction but equally in drug demand reduction through aggressive nationwide sensitization aimed at prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration of treated drug users back into their families and the society”, noted that the efforts “have not only attracted commendations from international partners and western nations but more support and collaboration with Nigeria in the global effort to curb the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.”

In his welcome remarks at the occasion, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) stated that there is no better time than now for the country to take drug use prevention seriously. According to him, “the reality around us is a strong indication—a wake-up call—for us as parents, guardians and governments to step up preventive measures.

He said: “For our nation, prevention is particularly critical, as we are already grappling with a serious challenge. Seven years ago, we came to the stark realisation that Nigeria had one of the highest drug abuse prevalence rates in the world. Today, with a population exceeding 230 million, it is both urgent and pragmatic to prevent new individuals from being drawn into the population of drug users. As parents, guardians, and leaders, we must be more vigilant and recognise that the issue of drug abuse is not distant—it is close to home. We must acknowledge that children are especially vulnerable, and we should not dismiss experimentation with illicit drugs as behaviour limited to a particular demographic.”

He said the NDLEA has continued to strengthen prevention strategies while being ferocious in its drug supply reduction activities, adding that addressing the socio-economic drivers of drug abuse is also crucial, as a prevention strategy. He noted that: “The Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration is providing leverage to tackle such critical factors as poverty and unemployment. Initiatives like NELFUND, which offers student loans, and programmes like the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT), which improve technical skills required for digital economy employability, along with improved national security, will reduce the factors that increase the likelihood of drug abuse.”

He added that: “In the final analysis, however, much responsibility rests on parenting. So, we should be looking at how to empower those invested with the role of parenting. Through our War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign, we work with parents, teachers and leaders in communities, institutions and associations to spread awareness and teach how to safeguard younger generations. Our family support advocacy emphasises that children don’t just need money—they need the presence and voice of their parents and guardians. Parents must ask questions, dig deeper, and instill values.

“Teachers also play a crucial role. They are deeply influential in shaping character and instilling values during the school years. The national curriculum now includes topics on drug abuse, and teachers are in a prime position to guide and protect young minds.

“Our advocacy efforts under the WADA campaign continue to gain momentum. Every week, across Nigeria, our 36 state commands with the FCT and 14 zonal commands engage in WADA outreach—raising awareness in schools, offices, religious centres, communities, motor parks and markets. We educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse and how to escape its grip. In recent years, many non-governmental organisations have joined NDLEA in partnership to broaden the reach of WADA advocacy. As a result, we have organised 11, 123 sensitisation programmes in schools, work places, worship centres, markets, motor parks and communities, while millions have been reached through our various robust weekly media engagements. This is in addition to thousands more who have benefitted from the psycho-social support services provided through our 24/7 Call Centre on our toll-free helpline- 080010203040.

“At the same time, we have ramped up treatment and rehabilitation efforts, with 30 centres currently active, where we have in the past 53 months counselled and rehabilitated 26,393 persons. Thanks to the support of Mr. President, seven new rehabilitation centres have now been approved and will be developed under the current year’s budget. That will broaden access to treatment.”

He also noted that prevention efforts will amount to little if access to illicit drugs remains open and easy. “Put simply, while we work strategically to prevent individuals from initiating drug use, we must simultaneously shut down the pipeline through which these harmful substances are distributed. We must remove traffickers from the equation. This is a task we have continued to pursue diligently, deploying every resource at our disposal.

“Over the past four and a half years, we have arrested 66,085 offenders—including 94 identified drug barons. Our Operation Offensive Action has yielded tangible results, including the seizure of 11,143,717.44kg assorted illicit drugs with life sentences now being secured in court while a total of 12,201 offenders have bagged various jail terms within the same time frame.”

He expressed gratitude to the individuals and institutions that have shown determination and resolve in helping to stem the tide of drug abuse in Nigeria. “We deeply appreciate the unwavering support of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His administration has provided the NDLEA with robust backing. We are also grateful to the National Assembly—particularly the chairmen and members of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Drugs and Narcotics—who have been steadfast allies of the agency. Similarly, the Nigeria Governors Spouses’ Forum and the MTN Nigeria Foundation have proven to be valued partners in progress.

“To the UNODC, INL, DEA, UK Border Force, NCA and the governments of the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and France—thank you for your continued and meaningful support.”

On his part, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said drug abuse is not just a public health crisis, but a threat to national security, social stability, and economic development. “Drug abuse and trafficking force organized crime undermines the rule of law and destroys the hope and future of our young people, our most precious national assets. Ladies and gentlemen, the evidence is indeed clear that investing in prevention of illicit drug cultivation and trafficking works.”

He said “prevention effort must be integrated into our educational system, health care services, and criminal justice programmes. The federal government is committed to tackling the drug problem and has put in place several drug control frameworks and instruments, including action plans and strategies with the overall aim to significantly reduce the prevalence of production, trafficking, sales, and use of illicit drugs, and its attendant social, economic, and health implications.”

Also speaking, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio who was represented by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, said the fight against the drug scourge “is not a war of convenience, it is a war of necessity. Every life lost to addiction is not just a tragedy, it is a failure of our collective will. Every young Nigerian drawn into this abyss is a call to arms.”

Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Cheikh Toure said prevention, treatment and recovery must not be seen as luxuries. “They are life-saving investments. Together we can break the vicious cycle of drug abuse, organized crime and marginalization and together we can build a safer, healthier and more hopeful Nigeria”, he added.

Tinubu: War Against Drug, Must be Embraced by All, Seen as a National Movement

National News

FG Declares Two-Day Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr

Published

8 hours ago

March 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

FG Declares Two-Day Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, March 19 and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr celebration.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who congratulated Muslim faithful across the country on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Federal Government, the minister urged Muslims to uphold the core values of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice, which define the Ramadan period. He emphasized the need for Nigerians to reflect on these virtues beyond the fasting season as part of efforts to build a more harmonious society.

Tunji-Ojo also called on citizens, regardless of religious affiliation, to use the festive period to pray for national peace, unity, and sustained progress, noting that collective responsibility remains key to the country’s stability.

He further encouraged Nigerians to celebrate responsibly and extend kindness to the less privileged, in line with the spirit of the season.

The declaration underscores the government’s continued commitment to promoting unity and peaceful coexistence in the country, as millions of Muslims prepare to celebrate one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.

FG Declares Two-Day Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr

National News

Nigeria–UK Investment Surge to Generate Jobs, Deepen Economic Ties

Published

8 hours ago

March 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Nigeria–UK Investment Surge to Generate Jobs, Deepen Economic Ties

By: Michael Mike

A new wave of multi-million-pound investments by Nigerian and British firms is set to create hundreds of jobs in both countries, reinforcing growing economic ties and positioning Nigeria as an emerging driver of global innovation and capital.

The investment push comes ahead of the state visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom, where both nations are expected to consolidate gains under the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), a framework aimed at boosting cooperation across key sectors.

At the centre of the development is an aggressive expansion by Nigerian banks and fintech companies into the UK market, alongside renewed commitments by British firms to scale operations in Nigeria.

In a major boost to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, Twinings Ovaltine has unveiled a £24 million production facility in Lagos—its first on the African continent. The plant is projected to create over 100 direct jobs while strengthening export capacity across West Africa.

Nigeria’s financial institutions are also increasing their global footprint. Zenith Bank has launched a new branch in Manchester, with plans to generate dozens of jobs and deepen trade links between Africa and the UK. The bank is also considering a future listing on the London Stock Exchange as part of its long-term expansion strategy.

Likewise, Fidelity Bank is expanding its UK presence following the rebranding of Union Bank UK to FidBank UK, with plans to significantly grow its workforce and capital base. Other players such as FCMB are leveraging the UK as a strategic hub to roll out cross-border payment platforms aimed at facilitating trade between Africa and the global market.

The fintech sector is driving a substantial share of the new investments. LemFi has committed £100 million over five years, designating London as its global headquarters, while Moniepoint plans to expand its UK workforce to 100 employees by 2026. Digital bank Kuda Bank is also scaling up its UK operations as it eyes broader international growth.

Beyond finance and technology, the creative industry is emerging as another pillar of collaboration. EbonyLife is set to establish EbonyLife Place London, a move expected to create new jobs while amplifying African storytelling on a global stage.

Officials say the growing investment flows highlight increasing confidence in both economies. UK authorities point to the country’s stable regulatory environment and access to global capital, while Nigeria’s expanding digital and creative sectors continue to attract international interest.

Education and skills development are also receiving attention, with new partnerships between institutions such as the University of Birmingham and the University of Lagos focusing on cutting-edge fields including artificial intelligence, digital technology, and healthcare innovation.

With bilateral trade now estimated at £8.1 billion annually, analysts say the latest round of investments signals a shift in UK–Nigeria relations—from traditional trade to a more dynamic partnership driven by innovation, talent, and shared economic ambition.

The coming days are expected to yield further announcements as both governments seek to unlock new opportunities capable of delivering long-term growth and job creation for their citizens.

Nigeria–UK Investment Surge to Generate Jobs, Deepen Economic Ties

National News

Babani assumes office as LCBC chief, pledges stronger regional security, cooperation

Published

14 hours ago

March 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Babani assumes office as LCBC chief, pledges stronger regional security, cooperation

By: Zagazola Makama

The newly appointed Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) and Head of Mission of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Amb. Ibrahim Babani, has pledged to strengthen regional collaboration to tackle security and developmental challenges in the Lake Chad Basin.

In his inaugural address, Babani underscored the importance of strengthening the MNJTF, the regional military coalition tasked with combating insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin.

He called for increased collaboration among troop-contributing countries and greater support from international partners, noting that sustained joint operations remain essential to degrading terrorist networks operating across porous borders.

He expressed gratitude to the Chairman of the LCBC Summit of Heads of State and Government, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, President of Chad, for supporting his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as other member states for endorsing his emergence.

Babani emphasised that peace and security would remain a top priority of his administration, particularly through enhanced support for the MNJTF, a regional military coalition combating insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin.

He called on troop-contributing countries to sustain active participation in joint operations, while also urging international partners to scale up support for counter-terrorism efforts.

Babani’s emphasis on strengthening the MNJTF reflects growing concerns over renewed insurgent activities across the Lake Chad region, especially in border communities spanning Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon.

The new LCBC boss paid tribute to his predecessor, Amb. Mamman Nuhu, acknowledging his leadership in stabilising the commission and advancing its core mandates.

Babani pledged to sustain and build on these achievements, while introducing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and institutional performance.

He also disclosed plans to engage member states on the recovery of outstanding financial contributions, a move seen as vital for funding regional programmes and sustaining operations of the commission.

Babani has emphasised teamwork, dialogue and collaboration as guiding principles of his leadership, expressing confidence in the capacity of the LCBC and MNJTF teams to overcome prevailing challenges.

He also pledged to uphold due process and ensure inclusivity in decision-making, noting that collective ownership of the commission’s goals would drive its success.

Beyond security, Babani pointed out key priorities of the LCBC, including sustainable management of shared water resources, environmental conservation, regional economic integration and conflict prevention.

These areas are critical to addressing the root causes of instability in the Lake Chad Basin, where climate change, shrinking water resources and economic hardship have contributed to displacement and insecurity.

Development partners, including the European Union, the African Development Bank and the German development agency (GIZ), were acknowledged for their continued support to the commission’s programmes.

Babani’s investiture in N’Djamena, Republic of Chad, signals not just a change in leadership, but a renewed commitment by member states to confront the complex challenges confronting the basin through collective action and strengthened partnerships.

The Lake Chad Basin, shared by Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon, has for over a decade remained at the epicentre of insurgency driven by extremist groups, alongside the devastating impact of climate change and dwindling water resources.

These challenges have combined to displace millions, disrupt livelihoods and strain already fragile governance structures across the region.
The dual role of Babani as head of both the LCBC and MNJTF places him at the intersection of security coordination and development planning—two critical pillars for stabilising the region.

Stakeholders noted that effective coordination among member states and sustained international backing remain critical to consolidating recent gains against terrorist groups. They argue that enhanced intelligence sharing, logistics support and joint planning will be crucial in maintaining pressure on such groups.

Beyond security, Babani highlighted the need to tackle underlying drivers of conflict, including poverty, unemployment, environmental degradation and competition over shrinking natural resources. The LCBC’s mandate, which spans water resource management, ecosystem conservation and economic cooperation, is seen as critical in addressing these issues.

Stakeholders say aligning these interventions with security efforts will be key to achieving sustainable peace in the region.

As Babani takes over the reins, expectations are high that his tenure will consolidate gains in regional security while advancing development initiatives that address the root causes of instability.

The Lake Chad Basin remains a region of strategic importance, not only for its member states but for the broader Sahel and West African sub-region.

How effectively the LCBC under Babani navigates the interplay between security and development may well shape the future of millions of people whose lives depend on the restoration of peace, stability and economic opportunity.

Babani assumes office as LCBC chief, pledges stronger regional security, cooperation