DRUG TRAFFICKING: AN ASSESSMENT OF THE OFFENSIVE ACTION PROGRAMME OF THE NATIONAL DRUG LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY

Abstract

Despite every effort to put drug trafficking under control in Nigeria, it appears to continue unabated. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)'s Offensive Action Programme in curbing drug-related activities across Nigeria. It examines key performance indicators, including the number of arrests, drug seizures, prosecutions, and the dismantling of drug syndicates, between 2021 and 2023. This is done using secondary data sources and methods, and the analysis of official records. E.M. Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Theory, which describes how an idea gradually gains momentum and diffuses (or spreads) within a particular social system, was adopted as the study's framework. The findings highlight challenges in Nigeria's anti-drug trafficking initiative, including legal loopholes, corruption, and inadequate funding, and the study recommends enhanced inter-agency collaboration, strengthened legislation, and increased intelligence investment.