SODAEC Warns of Funding Crisis for NDLEA's Anti-Drug Efforts

The Society for Drug Abuse Enlightenment Control (SODAEC) issued a warning regarding the non-release of capital funds to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for the 2025 fiscal year, stating that this poses a serious threat to Nigeria's anti-narcotics campaign. Ahmad Musa Umar, the Executive Director of SODAEC, emphasized that the NDLEA is a frontline agency addressing the security and socio-economic implications of illicit drug organizations.

He noted that the agency has recorded significant seizures and destruction of illicit drug farms in recent operations, but is hindered by inadequate funding, manpower shortages, and logistical constraints. The current personnel strength of the NDLEA is insufficient for Nigeria's population, and state commands reportedly operate with limited vehicles.

SODAEC highlighted that drug trafficking fuels crime, including banditry and terrorism, and called for improved funding, enhanced welfare for operations, and increased recruitment. The group urged the federal government to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged non-release of capital funds and to consider alternative funding mechanisms to ensure the agency's operational stability.