Tinubu Seeks to Scrap Indian Hemp Act, Change NDLEA Law

According to The Sun Nigeria news on October 14, 2026, President Bola Tinubu has asked the Senate to repeal the Indian Hemp Act and the existing National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s legal framework for combating illicit drugs.

Tinubu’s request was conveyed in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary. The proposed NDLEA Bill, 2026, seeks to replace the existing laws with a consolidated framework for tackling the cultivation, processing, trafficking and use of illicit drugs.

The proposed legislation would also strengthen the agency’s powers to investigate individuals suspected of involvement in drug-related activities. The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and Business for further legislative action.

Meanwhile, the Senate considered a separate bill seeking to repeal and re-enact the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) Act to improve the agency’s regulatory and enforcement capabilities.

Sponsor Senator Suleiman Sadiq said the existing legislation had become inadequate to address emerging public health challenges and developments in global trade.

He identified biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced medical devices, diagnostics and counterfeit pharmaceutical products as areas requiring stronger regulatory provisions.

The proposed NAFDAC legislation seeks to expand investigative powers, authorise inspections, facilitate the seizure of illegal products and empower officials to seal facilities involved in unlawful activities, subject to applicable legal safeguards.

It also proposes changes to the agency’s governing council, accountability procedures, funding arrangements and financial management to improve operational efficiency.

Sadiq said the reforms would protect public health, support local manufacturing, strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare system and provide clearer regulations for manufacturers, healthcare professionals and investors.

In another development, the Senate received the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau Amendment Bill, 2026, which seeks to expand the bureau’s responsibilities beyond aviation to include maritime and other transport incidents.

The bill also proposes transferring oversight of the bureau to the Presidency and strengthening its administrative and operational structure. The proposed legislation was referred to the Senate Committee on Rules and Business for further legislative action.

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