FG, India pact halts codeine syrup for Nigeria

The Federal Government of Nigeria has forged a critical partnership with the Government of India, aimed at halting the production of codeine-based cough syrups destined for Nigeria.

This significant international collaboration marks a major offensive in curbing the country’s escalating drug abuse crisis.

The development was disclosed by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) through its Apapa Strategic Commander, Buba Wakawa, during a press briefing held today to commemorate the upcoming 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26.

“Nigeria has signed an MoU with India to block the manufacturing of codeine-based syrups for any Nigerian importer,” Wakawa stated, emphasizing the proactive measures being taken.

“These are part of the international steps we are taking to stop the influx of these substances into our communities.”

Wakawa underscored that this strategic move aligns seamlessly with the NDLEA’s broader operational framework, which focuses on restricting the availability, accessibility, and affordability of illicit drugs throughout Nigeria.

This year’s anti-drug campaign theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Cycle,” resonates deeply with the NDLEA’s ongoing national initiative, the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), championed by its Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd).

Referencing the alarming 2018 United Nations Drug Survey, Wakawa highlighted that over 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15–64 had reported drug use, terming it “clear evidence of a growing epidemic.”

He stressed the necessity of a collective effort to combat this menace.

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“NDLEA cannot win this war alone. That’s why we’re involving stakeholders and sensitizing the public on the dangers of drug abuse,” he added.

Wakawa also acknowledged the vital support from both local and international partners in the arduous fight against drug trafficking.

He reiterated NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to continued collaboration with sister security agencies through shared intelligence, reinforcing a unified front against drug proliferation.