Building connections for drug law reform

Building connections for drug law reform

Nigeria’s highly draconian drug laws require minimum jail sentences of 15 to 25 years for all drug-related offences. In recent years, judges have used their discretion to reduce sentences and shorten terms for drug offenders. Then, in 2016, a new bill was tabled in parliament to remove this leeway for leniency. YouthRISE Nigeria, a partner in the Partnership to Inspire, Transform and Connect the HIV response, spearheaded a rapid advocacy campaign to block the bill.