| Justification
The action plan for the implementation of the1998 UNGASS declaration on Demand reduction clearly establishes the basis for regular assessment of the nature and magnitude of drug use, abuse and related trends. The Nigerian drug control programme has through rapid assessments developed basic information on the drug abuse situation in the country. However, the existing report does not elaborate the areas of Psychotropic/Psychoactive substances trafficking and abuse, the 'street hawking of drugs' and the extent and pattern of cannabis cultivation. The abstraction and translation of policy issues from the drug situation assessment findings and recommendations have not been properly activated and carried out, leaving a huge gap between available information and policy reforms in drug control.
In addition, the weak coordination of drug control program has hampered cooperation between the Law enforcement and security services, especially at the ports. Presently, Nigeria's Apex Bank and the financial institutions appear distanced from the mainstream of drug control programme especially in drug-related financial crimes (Money Laundering). It is also evident that the lack of sustained support to the media has affected its effectiveness as essential partners for mass education and communication in drug control
programme.
To assure credible design of interventions, there is need for reliable data and information. In order to consolidate and broaden the existing drug abuse situation/information base in the country, additional assessments on the other aspects of the drug problem will be carried out. There will also be improved coordination of Drug Control Programme, increased awareness and participation of financial institutions in drug control programme (Money Laundering), and sustainable media partnership.
Therefore, the planned situation assessments and surveys will be of a national scale and managed by local coordinating partners under the supervision of UNDCP. Within the amplitude of these projects, there will be support for Expert group Meetings and Workshops to develop policy guidelines and strategies in the drug control programme. Other activities to be supported include coordination, activating the financial institutions and the media partnership in drug control programme. |
