Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd.), has called on traditional rulers to work closely with government and civil society groups to protect girls from drug abuse, exploitation and other social challenges.
Marwa made the appeal on Saturday in Kaduna during the public presentation of In The Shadow of the Neem Tree, a book written by his daughter, Mariam Marwa-Abdu.
Speaking at the event, the NDLEA chairman said poverty, abuse and lack of education continue to expose many women and young people to drug abuse, stressing that protecting the girl-child is vital to building stronger families and communities.
“As the chairman of NDLEA, I see firsthand every day how systemic vulnerabilities like poverty, abuse and lack of education drive women and youth toward drug abuse and exploitation. Advocacy like Mariam’s is the first line of defence,” Marwa said.
He stressed that the fight against drug abuse should not be left to government agencies alone, urging traditional institutions to help change harmful cultural practices and support the education and empowerment of girls.
“We need the partnership of our revered traditional institutions… We must protect our daughters, educate them, and give them the wings to fly,” he added.
Marwa also described the book as a timely contribution to the campaign against child marriage, noting that early marriage often deprives girls of education, good health and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society.
He commended the author for using her legal background and advocacy to address issues affecting women and children.
Speaking at the event, Mariam Marwa-Abdu, founder of the Women and Children’s Rights and Empowerment Foundation (WCREF), said the book reflects her long-standing commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of vulnerable women and children.
Also speaking, the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, represented by the District Head of Basawa, Haruna Abubakar Bamalli, expressed optimism that the book would inspire positive social change and promote national development.
Source: NAN.
