NDLEA has successfully destroyed approximately 1.6 million kg of various drugs

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully destroyed approximately 1.6 million kilograms of various illicit drugs, marking the largest single-operation incineration in the agency's history.


That how they turn to vectors using of illicit drug

This public destruction event occurred on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at a secure site in Ipara along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State.

The drugs had been confiscated from Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states. As noted by NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, the destroyed contraband included 1.4 million kilograms of cannabis, 148,000 kilograms of codeine syrup, 3,244.26 kilograms of tramadol, 1,544 kilograms of skuchies, 123 kilograms of cocaine, 46.8 kilograms of heroin, and 111 kilograms of methamphetamine, among others. Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), NDLEA Chairman/CEO, who was represented at the event by the Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, emphasized that the destruction demonstrates the agency's steadfast commitment to combating drug trafficking in Nigeria.

"The significant amount seized, totaling approximately 1.6 million kilograms, underscores the severe threat these substances pose to public health until they are completely and irreversibly eradicated," he remarked. "The NDLEA is dedicated to reducing these narcotics to ashes, carrying out this duty with utmost seriousness." A Landmark Achievement in the Anti-Drug Effort: Marwa characterized the incineration as a notable achievement in the agency's history, stressing that it reflects the public destruction of the largest quantity of seized narcotics across several commands under NDLEA Zones 9 and 11, which include the Lagos Strategic Command, Ogun State Command, Oyo State Command, MMIA Strategic Command, Lagos Seaports, Idiroko Border Command, and Seme Border Command.

The Ongoing Battle: While celebrating this success, Marwa acknowledged the magnitude of the ongoing challenge. "This achievement reflects our commitment, but it also highlights the significant obstacles we still face," he stated. He cautioned those engaged in drug trafficking, asserting that the landscape has changed and there will be no refuge for them in Nigeria. "To those still operating in the illicit drug trade, we want to make it clear that things have shifted," he said. "The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is resolute in its commitment to eradicate this issue." NDLEA's Resolve to Prosecute Offenders: Marwa reassured the public that the NDLEA is determined to hold violators accountable, declaring, "We are fully committed to enforcing the law against those who flout it.

In the past four years, we have successfully prosecuted and convicted 10,572 offenders who are now serving various sentences." He expressed gratitude to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for their unwavering support of the agency and its operations in their respective states. Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Special Adviser on Security, AIG Olusola Subair (Rtd), praised the leadership and personnel of the NDLEA for their bravery and professionalism in intercepting illicit drugs before they reach communities. He acknowledged their vital role in saving lives, reinforcing communities, and upholding the rule of law, affirming the state government's commitment to partnering in the fight against drug-related crimes.

Governor Abiodun underscored that the drug epidemic presents a social, economic, and public health crisis, emphasizing the need for investment in prevention strategies, including education, counseling, and youth empowerment initiatives. He also called for the enhancement of rehabilitation centers and the establishment of support systems for individuals struggling with addiction.