By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja
The Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, led by Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, recently organized a public hearing to deliberate on a Bill for an Act to Establish a National Institute on Drugs Awareness and Rehabilitation, sponsored by Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, with the aims to address the growing issue of drug abuse and addiction in Nigeria.
The representative of National Drug Kawa Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Shedrack Haruna, who spoke on behalf of the Agency saw the move as a duplication of duties, even as he advised that the NDLEA is well equiped for effective performance.
Addressing journalists shortly after the hearing, on Tuesday at the National Assembly, Margaret Mkpanam from African Women Initiative shared the organization’s views on the Bill, acknowledging the economic challenges faced by the government.
However, she emphasized that the increasing number of drug addicts would have a negative impact on the government’s efforts to rebuild the economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Mkpanam stressed the importance of addressing drug abuse, citing its far-reaching consequences on individuals, families, and society as a whole.
She dismissed the NDLEA’s opposition to the Bill with a wave of her hand, drawing parallels with similar instances where the Police and Civil Defense had resisted the establishment of the NSCDC and Peace Corps, respectively.”
Speaking in consonance, the senate Committee members at the hearing serm to have given their nodes to the Bill, as each of them spoke at length on its benefit to the nation.
The public hearing provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the Bill and its implications. The proposed National Institute on Drugs Awareness and Rehabilitation aims to raise awareness, provide rehabilitation services, and support those affected by drug abuse. With the growing number of drug addicts in Nigeria, the establishment of such an institute could be a crucial step towards addressing this pressing issue.