The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has strengthened its partnership with Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta to promote legal farming and reduce the cultivation of illegal crops.
During a visit on April 21, 2026, NDLEA officials met with the university and also inspected an Artemisia annua farm in Ibafo, Ogun State. The visit is part of the agency’s Alternative Development programme, which aims to provide farmers with better and legal sources of income.
The NDLEA Chairman, Mohamed Buba Marwa, who was represented by his team, said the project will help farmers move away from illegal crops to profitable and approved farming. He added that the programme will also create opportunities for young people by engaging them in productive agricultural activities.
According to him, the partnership with FUNAAB will help turn research into practical farming solutions, improve food production, and support communities.
Speaking during the visit, the Vice-Chancellor of FUNAAB, Babatunde Kehinde, praised the initiative. He said the university has enough farmland to support large-scale agriculture and help reduce poverty.
He also stressed the need to improve rehabilitation programmes for people recovering from drug abuse. He suggested adding skills such as fashion design and shoemaking to help them rebuild their lives.
A major part of the visit was the focus on Artemisia annua, a medicinal plant with high economic value. NDLEA officials visited a farm in Ibafo to assess its potential as part of the programme.
The agency said it will continue to work with partners to support farmers, empower youths, and promote sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.
