Experts urge Nigeria to balance public health, economic potential, and social justice as cannabis oil enters the policy spotlight.
The NDLEA’s position—welcoming dialogue but urging caution—reflects a nuanced shift from outright prohibition to evidence-based policymaking. The agency acknowledges the therapeutic potential of cannabis oil while emphasising the need for rigorous regulation, public health safeguards, and scientific scrutiny.
This approach, supported by the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) and stakeholders like Ondo State’s leadership, signals a growing recognition of cannabis oil’s medical value and economic potential, without ignoring its risks.
As with any policy, benefits come with trade-offs. – The cannabis issue is no exception.
Merits of Legalising Cannabis Oil
Findings show that Cannabis oil comes with its own medical benefits, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), which has shown promise in treating: Epilepsy (e.g. Epidiolex, FDA-approved); chronic pain and inflammation, anxiety, PTSD, and depression, and multiple sclerosis (e.g. Sativex).
Furthermore, it is used in treating Cancer-related symptoms (nausea, appetite loss), Glaucoma and neurodegenerative disorders.
Clinical trials and regulatory approvals in countries such as the U.S., the UK, Canada, and Germany support these applications.
Its legalisation comes with significant economic opportunities as it could unlock Nigeria’s potential as a top cannabis producer, creating jobs in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and research.
Thus, a regulated cannabis industry could generate tax revenue, reduce illicit trade, and attract foreign investment.
Analysts say legalising cannabis will also impact social justice. “Reforming cannabis laws could reduce incarceration rates for non-violent drug offences.”
“It could address historical injustices and disproportionate criminalisation of marginalised communities,” they maintained.
Demerits and Risks
Conversely, legalisation of Cannabis oil raises significant disturbing public health concerns as “THC-rich cannabis can impair cognition, especially in youth,” experts posit.
Its legalisation also raises the risk of dependency, psychosis, and cardiovascular issues in vulnerable populations, just as poor regulation may lead to adulterated products and misuse.
Regulatory challenges are envisaged. This is because Nigeria lacks robust infrastructure for licensing, quality control, and pharmacovigilance. Experts warn of significant risks, as there is a palpable risk of diversion to illicit markets if enforcement is weak.
Nigeria is a highly religious nation. So, cultural and spiritual resistance is imminent, and deep-rooted stigma around cannabis may hinder public acceptance. Misinformation and moral panic could derail policy efforts.
Countries That Have Legalised Cannabis & Outcomes
Pharmaceutical Cannabis Products
These products are derived from purified cannabinoids and undergo rigorous clinical testing.
Key Considerations for Nigeria
In legalising Cannabis oil use in Nigeria, there must be evidence-based policy in place: Decisions must be guided by science, not commercial hype.
It must be accompanied by a regulatory framework, just as transparent licensing, monitoring, and enforcement are essential. The government must also develop well-planned public education initiatives to combat stigma and misinformation through awareness campaigns.
There must be stakeholder inclusion. Farmers, researchers, health professionals, and civil society must be involved. International alignment is sacrosanct, too. Nigeria should learn from global best practices while tailoring solutions to local realities.
Final Thoughts
The NDLEA’s openness to dialogue is a progressive step, but the path forward demands caution, clarity, and collaboration. Legalising cannabis oil could unlock medical and economic benefits, but only if Nigeria builds a robust, ethical, and science-driven framework that prioritises public health and social equity.
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