Crime
NDLEA Launches Cannabis Alternative Development
NDLEA CEO Brig Gen Marwa launches Africa’s first alternative development programme in Ondo to curb cannabis cultivation, strengthen rural communities, and enhance national security
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched Africa’s first alternative development programme aimed at reducing illicit cannabis cultivation, uplifting rural communities, and strengthening national security.
Also read: NDLEA Drug Bust MMIA Exposes Major Cocaine, Tramadol Smuggling Ring
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, NDLEA Chairman/CEO Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) explained that the pilot initiative goes beyond crop substitution.
“Its wider benefits include strengthening rural economies through value-chain development, promoting peace, supporting national food production, and improving Nigeria’s standing in global drug control,” he said.
The pilot programme began last week in three Ondo State communities Ilu Abo, Ifon, and Eleyewo where cannabis cultivation is prevalent.
Marwa highlighted that the project has been warmly embraced by local residents and traditional leaders, providing lawful and sustainable livelihoods while curbing criminal activity linked to drug farming.
Cannabis remains Nigeria’s most widely used illicit drug, with an estimated 10.6 million adults consuming it annually.
NDLEA assessments show nearly 8,900 hectares under cultivation in high-risk areas, often linked to organized networks supplying domestic and international markets.
Marwa called for nationwide support from government, community leaders, development partners, and civil society to expand the initiative.
He stressed that the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and represents a people-centred solution tackling the root causes of drug production.
International and national partners supporting the programme include the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the Global Partnership on Drug Policies and Development (GPDPD), and the Mae Fah Luang Foundation.
Ondo State Governor Dr. Lucky Ayedatiwa and Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture were also present.
Also read: NDLEA Arrests Key Cocaine Syndicate Member in Lagos, Seizes Drugs Worth N5 Billion
“This alternative development programme is not just a drug control measure; it is a strategy for sustainable community development, national security, and food production,” Marwa concluded, urging other cannabis-growing regions to adopt the model.
Police dismiss officers Anthony Obodo case has been confirmed as the Rivers State Police Command dismissed three of its officers linked to the killing of a 22-year-old University of Port Harcourt graduate, Anthony Obodo.
The State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, disclosed this on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, while parading the three officers before journalists in Port Harcourt.
According to the command, the officers were linked to the incident that occurred last Thursday along Ada George in Port Harcourt, where Obodo was shot dead.
A member of the team, an inspector who fled after the shooting, has been declared a deserter.
CP Adepoju stated that the three arrested officers were subjected to an orderly room trial. Following the conclusion of the investigation and the establishment of their culpability, they have been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force and will be charged to court.
“I am here to provide updates on some serious incidents recently recorded in the state, including the investigation into the death of one Anthony A. Obodo… Following the conclusion of the investigation and the establishment of the culpability of the officers involved… the officers being paraded today have been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force and will be charged to court,” Adepoju said.
The commissioner noted that he understood the concerns of Obodo’s family and members of the public, adding that the Command has taken appropriate disciplinary action against the police personnel involved.
Obodo, a graduate of the University of Port Harcourt who was reportedly awaiting his NYSC call-up letter, was shot during a police pursuit.
The NDLEA chairman tells Cambridge experts that arrests alone cannot dismantle drug networks without targeting the assets that finance them
-
Politics2 years ago
13 Ondo Assembly Members Disown Endorsement of Aiyedatiwa
-
Politics2 years ago
APC Group, Ondo Govt, Quarrel Over Money for Endorsement
-
Trending News5 years agoStop unsavoury, inciting statements – DSS warns
-
Others5 years agoAdron Homes Celebrates 10 Years Of Housing Excellence
-
Humanity5 years agoPresident Buhari Commiserates With Ambassador Maureen Tamuno Over The Loss Of Her Father
-
Others7 years agoEX- CUSTOMS BOSS, IBRAHIM MERA’S DWINDLING FAME
-
Business2 years agoBigi Carbonated Soft Drinks Treats 40 Consumers to an Epic Easter Movie Hangout
-
Business2 years agoWema Bank Shines at Global SME Finance Forum Conference Awards 2024 …Awarded: • SME Financier of the Year (Africa) • Platinum Award for Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs (Africa)