National Assembly Approves Life Imprisonment for Drug Offenders in Revised NDLEA Act

The National Assembly has officially amended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act, prescribing life imprisonment as the penalty for drug offenders and traffickers.

The amendment, passed on Thursday, November 21, followed the Senate’s adoption of a harmonized report prepared by its conference committee. Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Chairman of the Senate Conference Committee, highlighted that the updated legislation targets individuals involved in the illegal storage, transportation, or concealment of controlled substances.

According to the amendment, offenders found guilty under this Act—especially those armed with offensive weapons or using disguises—will face life imprisonment upon conviction.

During the plenary session, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin put the committee’s recommendations to a voice vote, which received unanimous approval from the Senate.