By Nkechi Eze
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has clarified that the recent remarks made by its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), on the prospect of cannabis oil export were merely the Agency’s opinion and should not be misconstrued as the Federal Government’s official position on the matter.
In an official statement signed by the Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the Agency explained that General Marwa’s comments were delivered in good faith as part of a broader national conversation during a workshop organised by the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) in Abuja on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. The event, themed “Cannabis Oil Debate: The Path Forward for Nigeria,” brought together experts and stakeholders to examine the scientific, economic, and regulatory implications of cannabis oil production and export.
During his remarks at the workshop, the NDLEA boss had stated that the Agency was “not averse to the idea of exporting cannabis oil to countries that require it for legitimate medical or industrial purposes,” particularly if such a move could boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings. He, however, maintained the Agency’s firm opposition to local use or cultivation of cannabis, citing the current high prevalence of drug abuse in the country and the existing legal prohibitions.
Clarifying the context of Marwa’s statement, Babafemi emphasized that it represented one of several expert opinions presented at the NAS forum and not a policy declaration.
“It is important to note that the Agency’s position was one of the many opinions canvassed by various stakeholders invited to address the workshop and should not be seen as the Federal Government’s approval of the position yet,” Babafemi explained.
He further noted that the NDLEA had commissioned the ongoing NAS study on cannabis oil to provide evidence-based recommendations that would guide future government decisions.
“We can only be further guided on this matter by the final recommendations of the Nigerian Academy of Science, which will eventually be submitted to the Federal Government as part of inputs that will be used to develop an informed policy on the subject,” he added.
The NDLEA spokesperson stressed that the clarification was necessary to avoid misinterpretations and misleading suggestions that the Agency had already endorsed or approved cannabis oil export.
“Such a decision can only be taken by the Federal Government after considering inputs from various stakeholders,” Babafemi stated.
The NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to working with scientific institutions, policymakers, and international partners to ensure that any potential policy on cannabis oil aligns with national health priorities, economic interests, and Nigeria’s anti-drug laws.
