From Olukayode Idowu, Maiduguri
SUNRISE NEWS, Borno, Aug 21, 2020 The National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA on Friday destroyed about 20,000 kilogrammes of illicit drugs in Borno state.
Speaking at a public destruction of the drugs at the outskirts of Maiduguri, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Col. Mohammed Abdallah (rtd.) said the event was a major boost in the fight against trafficking and consumption of drug, which have increased security challenges in the country.
He noted that statistics have shown that over four millions Nigerians abuse drugs with northern part of the country becoming the epicentre.
He said new policy initiatives are underway to ensure that the country overcome the twin problems of illicit trafficking and drug abuse.
He said: “As an extension of the proposed drug integrity test policy, in the public service, the NDLEA is also considering partnering with religious leaders to make drug test a prerequisite for marriage.”
He lamented that vulnerable groups with regards to drug abuse have expanded to include teenage girls, young and old married women.
Borno State Commander, NDLEA, Joseph Icha said the seized drugs comprised of cannabis sativa, variety of psychotropic substances, cocaine and heroin.