NDLEA URGES EXTENSION WORKERS TO JOIN ANTI-DRUG CAMPAIGN

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has advocated the
deployment of agricultural extension workers to the FCT area
councils, to assist in the campaign against the cultivation of Indian hemp.

Malam Hamza Dayi, the NDLEA area commander, Abuja Airport, who made
the call in an interview in Gwagwalada, FCT, said the measure was
the only solution to the problem.

Dayi said the recent discovery of some Indian hemp farms in FCT was
alarming, and called for a proactive approach to prevent its
replication in some neighbouring states.

He noted that the status of the FCT had attracted unemployed youths
from all parts of the country, to settle in the villages.

He said they were taking advantage of secured forests for the
cultivation of Indian hemp.

"Also, the low market price of agricultural products, compared to
illicit drugs, has encouraged a shift to cannabis cultivation," Dayi said.

According to him, about 70 per cent of the population of the six
area councils are peasant farmers.

"This makes it imperative for a massive enlightenment, guidance and
counselling and preventive education against illicit drug planting
and consumption in schools," he said.

He suggested the mobilisation of bank loans for farmers, to enable
them concentrate on food and cash crop production.

He urged the banks to support cassava production, to ensure the
maximisation of the potentials of the crop.

The commander decried the increased rate of consumption and planting
of Indian hemp in Nigeria, especially among the youth.

The development, he said, had a negative impact on
the socio-economic wellbeing of the people.

He appealed to the private sector, civil society organisations and
NGOs to support government campaign against the planting, selling
and consumption of Indian hemp in the country.