Senator Ned Nwoko has voiced strong support for the proposed bill to establish the National Institute on Drugs Awareness and Rehabilitation, asserting that Nigeria’s current drug response framework lacks the institutional capacity to tackle the country’s growing addiction crisis.

Speaking at a one-day public hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Nwoko pushed back against concerns from some stakeholders who fear the proposed institute may duplicate the functions of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

“The gap in our current drug response framework is glaring,” Nwoko said. “NDLEA’s focus is largely enforcement and interdiction, but what about sustained rehabilitation, grassroots awareness, school outreach, and long-term reintegration?”

The bill, sponsored by Senator Rufai Hanga, seeks to create a dedicated body focused solely on drug awareness, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs. It comes amid increasing calls from civil society and health professionals for a more comprehensive approach to drug control.

Nwoko, who has previously sponsored his own bill to establish a National Centre for Substance Abuse Management in Ndemili, Delta State, said the need for focused intervention has been echoed by stakeholders at all levels, including youth-led organizations.

“During my recent visit home, a student-led NGO approached me with a draft bill on the same issue. That’s proof that the need is urgent and widely recognized,” he noted.

He praised Senator Hanga’s leadership on the matter and urged his colleagues in the Senate to move forward decisively. “We must act with clarity and courage,” Nwoko stated. “Drug abuse rehabilitation requires its own institutional framework.”

The Senate resumed this week following a recess during which lawmakers engaged with constituents across the country. Senator Nwoko emphasized that grassroots feedback has reinforced the urgency of addressing drug addiction with sustainable, community-focused solutions.