NDLEA Urges Edo Cannabis Growers to Switch to Legal Crops

NDLEA Chairman Mohamed Buba Marwa says the agency is introducing an alternative development programme to encourage cannabis growers to cultivate legal crops such as cassava, yam and maize. He made the announcement during a visit to the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, in Benin City, and asked the monarch to support the initiative. Edo is being considered as the programme’s next state after a pilot began in three communities in Ondo State. The plan includes government support such as farming inputs and improvements to roads, schools, clinics and water supply. Marwa said cannabis made up 75 per cent of the 16 million kilograms of illicit substances seized over the past six years. He said the programme aims to help growers leave illicit cultivation for legitimate livelihoods. Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo also told the NDLEA delegation that drug abuse contributes to cultism, kidnapping and other violent crimes, and said the fight requires cooperation between government, security agencies and the public.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.