In a significant move to strengthen the fight against drug-related offenses, the National Assembly has approved an amendment to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act, which now mandates life imprisonment for individuals involved in drug trafficking and related crimes.
This decision follows the successful adoption of the harmonised report on the amendment by both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The report was presented by Senator Tahir Monguno, Chairman of the Senate Conference Committee, who emphasized that the revised Act introduces more stringent penalties aimed at deterring drug-related offenses. Monguno clarified that under the new provisions, individuals found guilty of engaging in the illegal storage, movement, or concealment of dangerous drugs and controlled substances would face severe consequences. He stated, “Any person who unlawfully engages in the storage, custody, movement, carriage, or concealment of dangerous drugs or controlled substances, and who is armed with an offensive weapon or in any way disguised, commits a criminal offense under this Act and is liable, upon conviction, to life imprisonment.”
This landmark amendment was officially endorsed by the Senate during Thursday’s plenary session, which was overseen by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin. Following the adoption, the amendment passed with a voice vote, reflecting broad support among the senators for the harsher penalties aimed at curbing the growing threat of drug trafficking and related criminal activities.
In addition to the drug law amendment, the Senate also passed the 2024 Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) Bill. This bill, which seeks to replace the outdated 2004 RMAFC Act, is designed to address Nigeria’s evolving economic challenges. Yahaya Abdullahi, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs, underscored the necessity for reforming the RMAFC Act, noting that the country’s current revenue system, last revised over two decades ago, no longer aligns with Nigeria’s current economic landscape, particularly in light of the country’s declining revenues and rapidly increasing population.
Abdullahi explained that the new bill proposes to enhance the operational framework of the commission, providing it with additional funding and restructuring its approach to improve efficiency. He stressed that adequate financial support from the Federation Account is crucial for the RMAFC to carry out its constitutional duties effectively. Abdullahi’s statements pointed to the need for a more dynamic and responsive fiscal management system, one capable of addressing the country’s changing financial environment.
The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission Bill passed through the Senate following extensive deliberations and received overwhelming approval in a majority vote. The bill now awaits President Bola Tinubu’s assent, after which it will become law and usher in a new era of fiscal policy in Nigeria.
