Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa urges increased mental health funding, prioritizing vulnerable groups to tackle drug abuse roots.
The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, has issued a strong warning that drug abuse and mental illness reinforce each other, demanding a shift toward treating root causes rather than just symptoms during an event in Abuja, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Speaking at the fifth edition of The Conversation Conference, Marwa argued that tackling substance addiction requires deep structural changes. He stated that addressing only the visible actions misses the underlying psychological trauma, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
The high-level gathering, organized by the Intersect Consortium and led by UK-based Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Vincent Udenze, brought together key stakeholders at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Addressing the Root Causes of Drug Abuse
Marwa explained that many cases handled at agency facilities stem from untreated psychological distress, trauma, and depression, noting that society has historically treated mental health as a hidden burden, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
He emphasized that hopelessness and poverty drive individuals into harmful behaviors, pointing out that sustainable economic alternatives are necessary to build resilient communities, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Highlighting practical steps, Marwa shared that the agency worked with residents in three pilot communities in Ondo State to develop legitimate livelihoods, moving families away from illicit cultivation, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Expanding Rehabilitation and Community Support
The agency chief disclosed that more than 53,843 people have successfully passed through the 31 rehabilitation facilities operated nationwide over the last five years, restoring fathers and young people to productive lives, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
He also promoted the ongoing War Against Drug Abuse campaign, alongside a 24-hour toll-free helpline designed to help families seek assistance without financial barriers, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Prioritizing Women, Children, and Vulnerable Groups
Commending the conference organizers, Marwa stressed the importance of placing women and children at the center of healthcare discussions, ensuring that survivors of violence and displaced persons receive proper support, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
He called for stronger institutional collaboration across the health, education, and security sectors, noting that recovery is far more sustainable when entire households are included in the healing process, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Increasing Government Investment in Mental Healthcare
Marwa urged the federal government to significantly increase national health budget allocations for mental healthcare, advocating for the recruitment of more psychiatrists and the integration of services into primary healthcare centers, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
He concluded by stressing that quality treatment should never be treated as a mere privilege for the wealthy, calling for equitable financing and coordinated stakeholder accountability across Nigeria, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency?
The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency is Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, who recently advocated for increased mental health funding and community-based interventions in Abuja.
Why does the NDLEA boss link drug abuse to mental health?
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa warns that drug abuse and mental illness feed each other, noting that untreated psychological distress and trauma often drive individuals toward substance addiction.
How many people have passed through NDLEA rehabilitation facilities?
More than 53,843 people have passed through the 31 rehabilitation facilities operated by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency across Nigeria in the last five years.
What did Marwa suggest for vulnerable groups like women and children?
Marwa emphasized that women, children, and other vulnerable groups must be prioritized in mental health interventions, ensuring family-centered support and stronger community resilience.
