PSN President,Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, FPSN with Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd).


The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has deepened its alliance with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to strengthen Nigeria’s response to drug abuse, trafficking, and misuse, reaffirming its commitment to a healthier and safer nation.

Abuja, October 23, 2025 — In a move to enhance coordination between pharmaceutical professionals and law enforcement, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), led by its President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, FPSN, paid a strategic courtesy visit to the Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd).

During the visit, the PSN commended the NDLEA for its renewed vigor in combating the menace of illicit drugs under the visionary leadership of Gen. Marwa. The PSN President praised the Agency’s achievements in securing borders, dismantling drug networks, and rehabilitating victims of substance abuse — efforts he said “have strengthened Nigeria’s public health and national security.”

Concerns from the Pharmaceutical Sector

Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim expressed concern over reports of undue harassment of licensed pharmacists and distributors during routine transportation of medicines. He noted that some NDLEA operatives have intercepted legitimate pharmaceutical consignments despite complete documentation, thereby disrupting the supply of essential medicines.

He attributed these occurrences to limited awareness among some operatives about the structure and regulation of Nigeria’s pharmaceutical supply chain, emphasizing the need for improved understanding and coordination between enforcement agencies and healthcare professionals.

PSN’s Proposal for Strategic Collaboration

To address these challenges, the PSN proposed a structured collaborative framework with the NDLEA. The proposal includes joint training and capacity-building programmes, technical guidance on controlled drug handling, inclusion of pharmacists in NDLEA committees, and continuous dialogue to strengthen synergy and communication.

Medicinal Cannabis Research and Mental Health Reform

The PSN also commended NDLEA’s ongoing partnership with the Nigerian Academy of Sciences on medicinal cannabis research and advocated for formal PSN representation on the committee overseeing the initiative. The Society further proposed joint advocacy to establish Rehabilitation Centres in all six geopolitical zones to enhance mental health support and drug demand reduction efforts nationwide.

NDLEA’s Response

In his remarks, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) welcomed the partnership and directed that the Director and Deputy Director of Drug Demand Reduction, alongside the Director of Medical Services, serve as the liaison committee with PSN. He revealed that the Agency currently operates 30 rehabilitation centres, with seven more under construction, and announced plans to recruit pharmacists in the next cycle to support NDLEA’s medical services.

Marwa also disclosed that certificate courses are being developed to advance professional development and strengthen public drug education. He reminded the public of the NDLEA’s toll-free helpline (0800 102 030 40) for counselling and assistance.

Emerging Drug Control Priorities

The NDLEA highlighted rising abuse of Tramadol and Pregabalin, noting that illegal tramadol factories operated abroad by some Nigerians have worsened the crisis. The Agency urged the PSN to engage the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to classify Pregabalin as a controlled substance in Nigeria.

Shared Commitment

Both institutions reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthen enforcement, enhance drug security, and ensure that medicines in Nigeria are used to heal — never to harm. The collaboration represents a renewed pledge to align science, security, and public health for national well-being.

“Together, science, security, and public health can build a safer Nigeria.” — Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, FPSN, President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN)

About the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN)

The PSN is the umbrella professional body for all pharmacists in Nigeria, dedicated to promoting professional excellence, rational drug use, and public health advancement through advocacy, education, and collaboration.