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Buba Marwa, the Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, says the porousness of West African borders contribute to the trafficking of illicit substances in the region.
Marwa said this in an address on Tuesday in Abuja, during a media conference to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
June 26 every year is set aside to commemorate the day and the theme for 2024 is ‘Evidence is Clear, Invest in Prevention’.
Marwa was represented by Mr Chigbu Chilee, Deputy Commander of Narcotics and the Assistant Director, Drug Demand Reduction Directorate.
“In West Africa, and specifically in Nigeria, drug trafficking and abuse are often seen as complex issues with deep-rooted social and economic factors.
“For example, poverty, unemployment, and a lack of educational opportunities contribute to the vulnerability of individuals to drug trafficking and abuse.
“Furthermore, the region’s porous borders and proximity to major drug trafficking routes make it a vulnerable transit point for illicit substances,” he said.
Marwa, however, said that the evidence was overwhelming that these activities have devastating consequences for individuals, communities, and societies.
According to him, investing in prevention is crucial to address the complex challenges of drug trafficking and abuse.
