NDLEA Moves to Standardise Drug Rehabilitation, Trains Over 100 Counsellors Nationwide
Michael Olugbode in Abuja The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has commenced a nationwide capacity-building programme for its counsellors as part of efforts to standardise treatment and rehabilitation services
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has initiated a nationwide capacity-building program for its counsellors, aimed at standardising treatment and rehabilitation services for individuals affected by substance use disorders. This first phase of the training, held at the NDLEA Academy in Jos, Plateau State, gathered over 100 counsellors from the agency's formations nationwide.
Coordinated by the Directorate of Counselling, Treatment and Rehabilitation (DCTR), this marks the first agency-driven training of its kind for NDLEA counsellors in several years. NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), revealed during the programme's commencement that the initiative was designed to bolster the agency's rehabilitation pillar and ensure clients receive evidence-based and quality interventions.
Recognising the evolving nature of substance abuse, Marwa emphasized the need for counsellors to continually update their knowledge and therapeutic skills. The training will create uniform operational protocols and enhance clinical competencies, addressing emerging psychoactive substances and co-occurring mental health disorders.
It will also ensure NDLEA's practices align with national and international standards, improve data management, promote professional development, and reduce inconsistencies in service delivery. The NDLEA boss stressed that this training is crucial for revitalising staff morale and equipping officers with modern therapeutic tools to tackle the complexities of substance use disorders.
Marwa affirmed that the agency would persist in investing in the professional development of its personnel as part of its strategy to reduce both the supply and demand for illicit drugs in Nigeria. He reiterated the importance of strengthening the counselling workforce to achieve sustainable outcomes in the agency's drug demand reduction efforts.
Marwa pledged the agency's commitment to adhering to global best practices in its interventions, aiming to ensure that rehabilitation services provided in its facilities meet professional and clinical standards.
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