The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd.), says the agency supports the regulated export of cannabis oil but remains firmly opposed to its local consumption.
Marwa made this known during a stakeholders’ workshop in Abuja, themed “Cannabis Oil Debate: The Path Forward for Nigeria”, organised by the Nigerian Academy of Science.
He explained that the NDLEA’s stance was guided by science and public health concerns, not by global trends or commercial interests.
“At NDLEA, our position on cannabis oil is straightforward — we encourage constructive dialogue. Nigeria must make informed decisions based on evidence, not emotion or external pressure,” he said.
According to him, while cannabis oil may have potential medicinal benefits, it also poses health and safety risks that must not be ignored.
“This is why scientists, medical experts, policymakers, and regulators must jointly examine the facts, assess the risks, and ensure any decision taken prioritises public safety,” he added.
Marwa noted that the agency was not against scientific research or innovation but maintained that national policies must protect citizens’ lives and uphold the fight against drug abuse.
He said the NDLEA supported the strictly supervised export of cannabis oil to countries that had approved its use for medical purposes.
“Our concern is its local consumption. We are not against exporting to countries that need it, provided the process is properly regulated, licensed, and restricted to export free zones,” he stated.
Describing cannabis as a plant with complex medical, social, and economic implications, Marwa warned against the growing narrative that focuses only on its perceived benefits.
He revealed that the NDLEA had commissioned a study on cannabis oil in partnership with the Nigerian Academy of Science to guide evidence-based decisions.
Marwa also cautioned that uncontrolled or prolonged use of cannabis and its extracts could lead to addiction, mental health disorders, and other social challenges.
He stressed that with Nigeria already battling a high rate of substance abuse—14.4 per cent compared to the global average of 5.6 per cent—the country could not afford to relax its stance.
“In the face of rising drug misuse and its consequences, we must approach the cannabis oil debate with caution, clarity, and responsibility. The health and wellbeing of Nigerians must come first,” Marwa concluded.