NDLEA Issues Clarification on Cannabis Oil Export Regulations

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has clarified that recent remarks about the potential export of cannabis oil do not represent an official policy of the Federal Government.

In a statement released on Thursday by its Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the agency said the comments were simply opinions shared during a scientific workshop — not a green light for cannabis oil exportation.

The clarification follows widespread speculation that the NDLEA had approved cannabis oil for export. According to Babafemi, NDLEA Chairman and CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), only presented the agency’s viewpoint during the event titled “Cannabis Oil Debate: The Path Forward for Nigeria”, held in Abuja on October 8, 2025, and organized by the Nigerian Academy of Science.

Marwa reportedly stated that while the NDLEA is not completely opposed to the idea of exporting cannabis oil for economic benefits, the agency still strongly rejects its local use due to Nigeria’s drug laws and the country’s alarming rate of substance abuse.

“The agency’s position was just one of several perspectives shared by stakeholders at the workshop. It should not be mistaken as an official endorsement or policy of the Federal Government,” the statement read.

Babafemi also noted that a scientific study commissioned by the NDLEA and currently being carried out by the Nigerian Academy of Science will help inform future decisions on the issue.

“We’re awaiting the Academy’s final recommendations, which will be submitted to the Federal Government and considered when formulating a comprehensive policy,” he added.

The NDLEA stressed that any approval for the export of cannabis oil can only come from the Federal Government, not the agency.