By Kingsley Omonobi

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded significant achievements in its anti-drug campaign, with the arrest of 14,480 suspected drug traffickers, including 15 drug barons, and the seizure of over 2.4 million kilograms of illicit drugs between January and October 2024.

NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), disclosed these figures during a briefing with the House of Representatives Committee on Narcotic Drugs, who visited the agency’s national headquarters in Abuja on December 4, 2024.

Highlighting the agency’s progress, Marwa stated:

Arrests and Convictions: NDLEA secured 2,867 convictions in court, surpassing its records from the previous three years.

Seizures: The agency confiscated 2.4 million kilograms of illicit drugs and destroyed 547,378 kilograms of cannabis plantations.

Rehabilitation: Over 6,655 drug users were counseled and rehabilitated.

Awareness Campaigns: Conducted 3,064 sensitization programs across schools, motor parks, workplaces, and worship centers, reaching over 1.3 million people.

Marwa noted significant milestones, including the largest heroin seizure in NDLEA’s history (51.9 kg at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in February) and the arrests of high-profile drug barons in Lagos. He also referenced the recent amendment of the NDLEA Act as a key step forward for the agency.

Expressing gratitude to the lawmakers for their support, Marwa emphasized the need for continued and enhanced funding to sustain the agency’s momentum:

“We have transformed from an under-resourced entity into a proactive organization. However, achieving our full potential requires unwavering support from the legislature, especially in securing adequate resources.”

Chairman of the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs, Hon. Abass Adigun, praised the agency’s commitment despite operating under challenging conditions. He assured the NDLEA of the committee’s advocacy for improved funding, modern equipment, and a better working environment to enable the agency to fulfill its mandate effectively.

Adigun concluded by affirming the legislature’s commitment to strengthening NDLEA’s capacity, ensuring it remains a formidable force against drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria.