Nigeria, India Unite to Curb Codeine Syrup Imports

Nigeria has formalized a new agreement with India aimed at halting the production of codeine-based cough syrups meant for export to Nigeria, as part of intensified efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking in the country.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) announced the move on Monday through its Apapa Strategic Commander, Buba Wakawa, during a press briefing in Lagos ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking, which will be observed on June 26.

Wakawa said the partnership with India was established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) designed to stop Nigerian importers from sourcing codeine-laced syrups from Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers. He noted this international cooperation represents a proactive step in reducing the inflow of illicit drugs into Nigeria.

“By stopping these substances at the point of production, we are curbing their access locally and reducing abuse rates,” Wakawa explained.

This year’s awareness campaign is themed “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Cycle”, highlighting the global call for proactive strategies in tackling drug-related challenges. Wakawa emphasized the importance of community engagement, noting that the fight against drug abuse must include education, prevention, and policy reform.

Citing the 2018 UN Drug Use Survey, he warned that more than 14 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 had used drugs within the previous year—a figure he described as an alarming indication of a national crisis.

He commended the leadership of NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), for his role in launching the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, which he credited with deepening public awareness and multi-agency collaboration.

The NDLEA, Wakawa added, continues to share critical intelligence with other national security and regulatory bodies to disrupt drug trafficking channels, and is calling on more stakeholders to join the effort in sensitizing the public.

He also expressed gratitude to both domestic and international partners supporting Nigeria’s anti-drug campaigns and called for sustained collaboration in the years ahead.