Reps Move to Empower NDLEA to Run Drug Rehabilitation Centres Nationwide

The House of Representatives has approved a bill that will empower the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to run drug rehabilitation centres across Nigeria. The legislation, sponsored by Hon. Garba Mohammed, aims to amend the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act to create a legal framework for the establishment, management and operation of drug abuse treatment, counselling and rehabilitation centres.

Led by Mohammed, the bill's supporters argue that the amendment is necessary to address the growing drug abuse problem in Nigeria, particularly among young people and vulnerable populations. The NDLEA, established to combat narcotic drug and psychotropic substance abuse, has achieved significant successes through enforcement operations, drug seizures, arrests and prosecutions.

However, the lawmaker emphasized that drug abuse has evolved into a major public health and social challenge, placing pressure on families, communities, healthcare facilities and the criminal justice system. The proposed legislation seeks to align the NDLEA's mandate with international drug control standards, recognizing that drug dependence is a medical and psychological condition requiring professional treatment and support.

The bill's main objective is to give NDLEA the legal authority to establish, maintain and operate rehabilitation facilities under qualified medical supervision, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated response to substance abuse.