The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has sought the support of the Oba of Benin, HRM, Oba Ewuare II, for its Alternative Development Initiative aimed at persuading cannabis farmers to abandon illicit cultivation and embrace legitimate agricultural activities. This initiative is designed to address the economic challenges confronting cannabis farmers by offering them viable alternatives to illicit cultivation and opportunities to earn legitimate incomes without fear of arrest and prosecution.
According to Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), the Chairman of NDLEA, the programme would encourage cannabis growers to cultivate crops such as cassava, yam, and maize, while providing them with the necessary support to establish sustainable livelihoods. Marwa disclosed this information during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Oba of Benin in Edo State. He mentioned that Nigeria is the first African country to adopt this strategy, which has received the endorsement of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Federal Government.
The initiative has commenced as a pilot programme in three communities in Ondo State, with the support of the Federal Government and the State government. Marwa also presented the proposal to the Edo State governor, who welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that it would be extended to communities in Edo involved in cannabis cultivation. The governor's endorsement is a significant step towards implementing the programme in Edo State.
The NDLEA chairman further disclosed that the intervention would go beyond providing alternative crops to include infrastructure and basic social amenities such as roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and potable water to improve the living conditions of participating communities. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the well-being of the communities involved and provide them with a better quality of life.
Marwa revealed that cannabis accounted for about 75 per cent of the 16 million kilogrammes of illicit substances seized by the agency across the country in the last six years. This statistic highlights the significance of the NDLEA's efforts to address cannabis cultivation and trafficking in Nigeria. The agency's work is crucial in reducing the prevalence of illicit substances in the country.
In his remarks, the Oba of Benin, HRM, Ewuare II, recalled his longstanding interest in addressing societal challenges, including drug trafficking and human trafficking. He noted that he would continue to support initiatives aimed at protecting communities and improving the welfare of the people. The monarch also disclosed that he had some suggestions for improving the operations of the NDLEA.
The Oba of Benin's support for the NDLEA's initiative is significant, as it demonstrates the importance of collaboration between traditional leaders and law enforcement agencies in addressing societal challenges. The success of the Alternative Development Initiative will depend on the support of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, government officials, and the communities involved. The NDLEA's efforts to engage with stakeholders and build partnerships are crucial to the programme's success.
Key points
- The NDLEA's Alternative Development Initiative aims to persuade cannabis farmers to abandon illicit cultivation and embrace legitimate agricultural activities.
- The initiative has received the endorsement of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Federal Government.
- Cannabis accounted for about 75 per cent of the 16 million kilogrammes of illicit substances seized by the NDLEA across the country in the last six years.
