The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has launched a collaborative initiative with the Ondo State Government and local communities to end the cultivation of cannabis sativa, popularly known as Indian hemp.
The scheme, called the Alternative Development Project, was unveiled during a town hall meeting in Akure on Tuesday. NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), explained that the project aims to engage communities involved in illicit cannabis farming, encouraging a shift to legitimate crop cultivation.
“We are here to build a robust community network to support the Alternative Development Project; to locate and establish alternatives to illicit cropping,” Marwa stated. He emphasized the project’s goal to provide sustainable livelihoods and ensure food security, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The ADP is designed as a community-centered approach to replace the traditional enforcement battle against drug producers. Marwa noted that the pilot phase will begin in three pioneering communities in Ondo State before a nationwide expansion.
“We want to ensure project ownership because this initiative belongs to you, the people,” he told stakeholders.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, pledged the state’s full support for the initiative. “I wish to assure the NDLEA of the continued support and cooperation of the Ondo State government under my leadership towards stemming the tide of drug abuse,” the governor stated.
The Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Okunoye, also expressed the readiness of traditional rulers to partner with the NDLEA. “Traditional rulers in Ondo state are ready to partner with NDLEA in the fight against illicit drugs,” he affirmed.
The NDLEA highlighted the nexus between drug trafficking and criminal activities like banditry and terrorism, underscoring the urgency of the intervention.
