An Assessment of the Legal and Institutional Framework for Drug Regulation and Control in Nigeria: Effectiveness, Challenges, And Policy Implications

This study examines the effectiveness, challenges, and policy implications of Nigeria’s legal and institutional framework for drug regulation and control, with particular emphasis on the 2025 amendments to the NDLEA Act and their alignment with international drug control standards. Anchored in institutional theory and deterrence theory, the study assesses the operational effectiveness of key regulatory bodies—NDLEA, NAFDAC, and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN)—while also exploring systemic, socio-economic, and security-related factors affecting drug control outcomes. Using a descriptive and explanatory mixed-methods design, primary data were collected through questionnaires and structured interviews from a purposively selected sample of 200 respondents drawn from law enforcement agencies, health and legal professionals, academics, and drug traders. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square inferential analysis, with reliability confirmed through Cronbach’s Alpha (?0.70). The findings indicate that although Nigeria’s drug control laws are largely comprehensive, their practical effectiveness is constrained by weak enforcement, institutional capacity deficits, judicial delays, corruption, and porous borders. The study further reveals no statistically significant relationship between the existing legal–institutional framework and effective control of illicit and substandard drugs, confirming a persistent implementation gap. The study concludes that effective drug control in Nigeria requires integrated reforms emphasizing institutional strengthening, improved judicial efficiency, public health–oriented approaches, and enhanced inter-agency and regional cooperation.