The Senate has resolved to urge the Federal Government to restructure the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), to be able to meet the challenges of evasive drug traffickers.

The upper chamber which made the resolve during plenary, also encouraged the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria to evolve a collaborative approach towards curbing drug abuse in Nigeria, even as it mandates the Committee on Drugs and Narcotics to consider an urgent amendment of Section 23 of the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria Act, so as to include sale of prescription pills over-the-counter, as an offence punishable by the Act. This was followed by a motion on Nigerians’ involvement in illicit global drugs trade and increase in domestic drug abuse by youths, which was sponsored by Senator Gbenga Ashafa, (Lagos East). The bill was co-sponsored by 21 other senators.

While speaking on the motion, Senator Sam Anyanwu, (Imo East), described it as very apt and detailed, adding that Nigerian youths misbehaviour towards illicit drug globally is very embarrassing.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu (Lagos Central), noted: “Drug issue in the country is not a matter of youths alone. Even, some old ones are dangerously addicted.” She advised that drug rehabilitation centres must be part of the proposal of the motion to cater for addicted persons. Senator Jibrin Barau, while admitting that drug related issues by Nigerians abroad is embarrassing and inimical to the efforts of the President, added that the rate of drug abuse has assumed an alarming dimension, including youths in secondary schools, housewives, etc.

On the several international trips which Muhammadu Buhari has embarked on since the commencement of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, he said the President is trying to build a good image for the country.

•Photo shows the Senate in session.

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