Brigadier-General B.O. Omopariola, Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade in Katsina, has strongly criticized the notion that soldiers need drugs, particularly marijuana, to function effectively in the field.
Speaking over the weekend at a lecture titled “Drug-Free Workplace and Community,” the general addressed troops as part of the 2025 Army Day Celebration, where he emphasized professionalism and discipline over drug dependency.
“The assumption that soldiers need weed to perform is stupid. Don’t bring that nonsense to me,” Omopariola declared bluntly.
He stressed that the brigade has recorded significant operational successes in anti-banditry missions due to rigorous training and commitment, not drug use.
“Even though we are not drug law enforcement agents, we are duty-bound to ensure compliance in our formations. We have carried out many successful operations without weed,” he said.
Taking an uncompromising stance, he warned that soldiers found to be relying on drugs should be handled decisively.
“Any soldier claiming otherwise should be sent for counselling and treatment, and if that fails, charge the idiot,” he added.
The event also featured a presentation by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Assistant Commander of Narcotics, Zainab Isah Ibrahim of the NDLEA Katsina Command, gave a detailed talk on the far-reaching consequences of drug abuse.
She explained the dangers extend beyond the individual, affecting society in multiple ways—physically, psychologically, socially, and economically.
The lecture was part of broader efforts to instill a drug-free culture within military ranks and surrounding communities, reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to discipline and integrity.
