FEC Approves Funds for NDLEA Operations

Eko Hot Blog reports that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has authorized significant financial allocations aimed at bolstering the operations of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and promoting environmental sustainability through a ban on single-use plastics in federal government offices.

Addressing journalists after the FEC meeting in Abuja, Dr. Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice outlined the approvals granted in support of the NDLEA’s activities.

“The Council has approved $1.442 million for the procurement of arms, ammunition, and anti-riot equipment to enhance the NDLEA’s anti-narcotics operations,” Fagbemi stated, highlighting the Council’s commitment to equipping the agency effectively.

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Furthermore, Fagbemi detailed other approvals beneficial to the NDLEA, including N1.9 billion for the purchase of 33 CNG-compliant vehicles and N985 million for the acquisition of full body scanners for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

In a separate environmental initiative, Minister of State for Environment, Iziak Salako, announced the FEC’s decision to ban single-use plastics across all federal ministries, agencies, and departments.

“The ban on single-use plastics aligns with the 2022 National Policy on Plastic Waste Management and underscores the government’s commitment to addressing climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss,” Salako explained during the post-FEC briefing.

He emphasized that reducing plastic waste is crucial in mitigating flooding, curbing ocean pollution, and safeguarding human health and the environment.

Salako clarified that while the ban currently applies to federal government institutions, it serves as a precursor to a nationwide prohibition expected by January 2025 under the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management.

“The federal government’s proactive approach sets the stage for broader implementation across Nigeria, in line with our policy framework adopted in 2022,” Salako affirmed.

The FEC’s decisions underscore Nigeria’s proactive stance on security enhancement and environmental sustainability, marking significant strides towards national development goals.

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