In the build-up to the 98th Annual National Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), the Society, led by its President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, FPSN, paid a strategic courtesy visit to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

The high-level engagement, held in company of the living ancestors of the PSN—Pharm. (Prof) Cyril Odianose Usifoh, Pharm. Ahmed Yakassai, and Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, all past presidents of the society, was aimed at deepening collaboration between both institutions in tackling the national challenges of drug abuse, illicit trafficking, and the misuse of medicines while also strenghtening the role of pharmacists in advancing public health across Nigeria.

During the visit, Pharm. Tanko commended NDLEA for its renewed vigor and strategic success in combating the menace of illicit drugs under the leadership of Gen. Marwa. He lauded the Agency’s achievements in dismantling criminal networks and rehabilitating victims, describing them as “efforts that have strengthened Nigeria’s public health and national security.”

“The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria recognizes the NDLEA’s remarkable work in keeping our communities safe,” Pharm. Tanko stated. “But as we continue this battle, it is important that we also protect the integrity of our pharmaceutical supply chain to ensure that legitimate medicines reach those who need them most and patients have uninterupted access to essential, life-saving drugs.”

The PSN President, however, expressed concern over the harassment of licensed pharmacists and distributors during the lawful transportation of medicines. He noted that some operatives intercept duly documented pharmaceutical consignments, thereby disrupting the distribution of essential drugs.

“This is often due to limited awareness among some enforcement officers about how the pharmaceutical supply chain operates,” he said. “We must bridge that gap through education and collaboration, not conflict.”

To address these gaps, the PSN proposed a structured collaboration framework with NDLEA, including joint training and capacity-building, technical guidance on controlled drug handling, inclusion of pharmacists in NDLEA committees, and continuous dialogue to promote mutual understanding and efficiency.

Pharm. Tanko also commended NDLEA’s ongoing collaboration with the Nigerian Academy of Science on medicinal cannabis research, advocating for PSN’s inclusion in the steering committee overseeing the project. He further called for the establishment of rehabilitation centres in all six geopolitical zones to expand access to mental health and recovery services.

In his response, Brig. Gen. Marwa (Rtd) welcomed the partnership initiative, describing it as “timely and strategic.” “The NDLEA sees the PSN as a vital ally in the national effort to control drug misuse,” Marwa said. “Our success depends on synergy — enforcement backed by science and professional expertise.”

He disclosed that the NDLEA currently operates 30 rehabilitation centres across the country, with seven more under construction, and confirmed plans to recruit more pharmacists to strengthen the Agency’s medical services.

Marwa also directed that the Director and Deputy Director of Drug Demand Reduction, alongside the Director of Medical Services, be designated as liaison officers to PSN for sustained engagement.

He added that the NDLEA is developing certificate courses to enhance the capacity of professionals and improve public drug education, while its toll-free helpline (0800 102 030 40) remains open for citizens seeking help or reporting drug-related issues.

On emerging trends, he raised concern about the increasing abuse of Tramadol and Pregabalin, revealing that some illegal tramadol manufacturing factories operated by Nigerians outside the country are a continuing challenge as they flood the local markets.

NDLEA urged PSN to engage the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to consider classifying Pregabalin as a controlled substance to stem the tide of misuse in Nigeria.

Recall that the NDLEA boss graced the 7th public lecture of the Board of Fellows (BOF-PSN) as Special Guest of Honour in July, under the able leadership of the National Chairman, Pharm. Uchenna Apakama, FPSN, where he addressed the nation's growing mental health crisi

“At the NDLEA, we see how substance use disorder compromises not only personal health but also tears apart families and weakens community bonds,” Marwa had cautioned. “Behind every drug user is a family in distress and a society bearing the costs of lost productivity.”

That earlier engagement further highlighted the need for stronger multi-sectoral action—a call both NDLEA and PSN have continued to pursue through sustained partnership.

Both institutions closed the meeting with a shared commitment to strengthening enforcement, protecting public health and promoting responsible drug use across Nigeria. “Together, science, security, and public health can build a safer Nigeria,” Pharm. Ayuba declared, calling for coordinated action from regulators, law enforcement, professional bodies and industry.

“And through collaboration with the PSN, NDLEA will continue to ensure that medicines heal and never harm,” Gen. Marwa concluded.

Other senior officials and members of the PSN and NDLEA were also in attendance. Their presence underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to build a safer, healthier and drug-free nation.