The head of Nigeria’s drug enforcement agency has said the country could consider exporting cannabis oil under strict regulation, but domestic consumption would not be permitted.
NDLEA Chairman Buba Marwa, speaking at a workshop in Abuja themed “Cannabis Oil Debate: The Path Forward for Nigeria”, said discussions on the issue must be sober and evidence-driven.
He acknowledged that some countries had authorised cannabis oil for medical purposes, but stressed that Nigeria’s priority was to protect citizens. “We are not opposed to science or innovation, but policy must safeguard public health,” he said.
Marwa highlighted the risks of uncontrolled cannabis use, including mental health disorders, addiction, and economic strain on families and communities. He warned that with 14.4% substance abuse prevalence in Nigeria—well above the global average of 5.6%—and over 10 million cannabis users, the country could not ignore the dangers.
While open to exports, he said the trade must be strictly controlled, located only within designated free zones, and monitored closely by the NDLEA.
The agency has commissioned a study with the Nigerian Academy of Science to weigh the health, social and economic implications before any policy shift.
