NDLEA: WE'RE OPEN TO TALKS ON LEGALISING CANNABIS OIL

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BY MUNIRAT BALOGUN

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it is open to discussing the legalisation of cannabis oil for its medicinal benefits.

Retired Brig-.Gen. Buba Marwa, Chairman of the NDLEA, stated this in Abuja on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ workshop titled “Cannabis Oil Debate: The Path Forward for Nigeria”.

The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) organized the workshop, which explored scientific evidence on the therapeutic applications of cannabis oil.
It also took into account international best practices for cannabis oil regulation, production, and distribution, among other aspects.

The program also discussed Nigeria’s existing legal and policy landscape around cannabis oil consumption.

It was also designed to provide policymakers and stakeholders with evidence-based, context-specific advice to help them make decisions.

Marwa stated that while the agency had seized about ten million kg of cannabis over the last four and a half years, it did not underestimate the capacity of science to investigate its benefits.

“The NDLEA’s view on cannabis oil is simple: we welcome conversation.

“We believe that Nigeria should make educated decisions, not ones influenced by half-truths, commercial interests, or global trends.

“Cannabis oil may have medical benefits that warrant further investigation, but it also entails health hazards, the potential for abuse, and issues for public safety.”

“This is why it is critical that scientists, medical professionals, policymakers, and regulators meet in the same room to bring facts to the table, scrutinize data, and carefully assess options,” he stated.

He did, however, warn that any legislation established must safeguard lives, save public health, and not undermine the fight against drug abuse.

Prof. Abubakar Sambo, President of the NAS, stated that Nigeria should be more aggressive in evaluating the usage of cannabis revenues.

Sambo, represented by Prof Friday Okonofua, Vice President of the NAS, acknowledged Nigeria as one of the largest producers and users of cannabis even when it was illegal.

Sambo suggests taking a proactive and reform-oriented approach to cannabis, as it has potential for social development. However, he also acknowledges the potential negative side effects, which may be challenging in this country.

Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo said cannabis had long been stigmatized, but worldwide perceptions of the substance were shifting.

Dr Samuel Adekola, Consultant to the Government on Pharmaceutical and Medical Investment, represented Aiyedatiwa, who stated that countries were balancing restrictions with restricted legalization.

“Let me be clear: our ardent plea for cannabis legalization in Nigeria is not a free-for-all call.

“On the contrary, we must create a framework that prioritises public health and safety, ensuring that any regulation we implement safeguards adolescents, prevents misuse, and promotes responsible usage under medical supervision.”

“To minimize diversion to illicit markets, we must provide adequate regulation and administration, including a transparent licensing system, monitoring measures, and law enforcement strategies.

“We should also think about economic growth and social fairness, offering real opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors.”

“This is in addition to correcting historical injustice endured by our communities and excessive criminalisation under earlier legislation,” he stated.

He believes that the time has arrived for Nigeria to follow scientific principles.

Prof. Musbau Akanji, Chairman of the NAS Consensus Study Committee on Cannabis Oil and Use in Nigeria, emphasized the importance of an evidence-based approach in the discussion over cannabis oil legalization.

Akanji stated that there were donations from numerous sources advocating for the legalization of cannabis oil.

“As a result, the NAS formed a consensus study committee on the cannabis oil dispute, which included specialists from all domains relevant to the study request.

“The specialists are meant to present evidences that will be gathered to assist in carrying out the responsibility of the NAS,” he stated.

He praised the NDLEA for soliciting expert advice on both the benefits and drawbacks of legalizing cannabis oil.