The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the seizure of 5,305,484.88 kilograms of illicit drugs valued at more than N1.5 trillion within the last 18 months, in what authorities describe as one of the agency’s most significant anti-narcotics operations in recent years.
NDLEA Chairman, Mohamed Buba Marwa, disclosed the figures on Thursday while providing an update on the agency’s enforcement activities across the country. According to him, the seizures included cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine, tramadol and other psychotropic substances intercepted through intelligence-led operations and border surveillance activities.
Marwa said the agency also arrested thousands of suspected drug traffickers during the period, including high-profile operators involved in organised criminal networks. He added that several hectares of cannabis farms were discovered and destroyed in different parts of the country as part of efforts to curb local cultivation and distribution.
“The fight against drug trafficking remains a top priority. We have strengthened intelligence gathering, improved collaboration with other security agencies and enhanced surveillance at entry points across the country,” he said.
The NDLEA boss attributed the achievements to increased operational capacity, improved technology deployment and cooperation from both local and international partners. He noted that drug trafficking continues to pose serious threats to public health, national security and economic development.
The agency’s latest figures come amid growing concerns over the rising abuse of illicit substances, particularly among young people. Experts have linked drug abuse to increasing cases of crime, mental health challenges and social instability in many communities.
Marwa warned drug dealers and traffickers that the agency would sustain its crackdown and ensure that offenders face the full weight of the law. He also called on citizens to support anti-drug campaigns by reporting suspicious activities within their communities.
Stakeholders have described the seizures as a major milestone in Nigeria’s fight against narcotics trafficking, while urging authorities to complement enforcement efforts with stronger rehabilitation and public awareness programmes.
