By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Sokoto State Command, has expressed concern over the growing threat of illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse, disclosing that it seized 3,910.564 kilograms and litres of illicit substances and arrested 599 suspects between June 2025 and June 2026.

The State Commander of the NDLEA, Mustapha Mohammed Gidado, made the disclosure during a press briefing to commemorate the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed globally on June 26.

Speaking on this year’s theme, which focuses on renewed commitment, evidence-based interventions and collective responsibility in tackling the global drug menace, Gidado described illicit drug trafficking as a major threat to Nigeria’s security, public health and socio-economic development.

According to him, the proliferation of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances continues to fuel violent crime, banditry, terrorism, youth delinquency and other forms of insecurity, making the fight against drug abuse a national priority.

Presenting the command’s operational scorecard, Gidado said NDLEA operatives intercepted 1,274.545 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa, 127.529 kilograms of psychotropic substances—including Tramadol, Diazepam, Exol-5, Rohypnol and Methamphetamine—and 2,508.490 litres of codeine-based cough syrup.

He said the total volume of seizures stood at 3,910.564 kilograms and litres, reflecting the scale of illicit drug trafficking being tackled across Sokoto State and its border communities.

The commander added that 599 suspects, comprising 532 males and 67 females, were arrested during anti-drug operations within the period under review.

He disclosed that 24 suspects had been successfully prosecuted and convicted, while 33 cases remain pending before the courts.

Beyond enforcement, Gidado said the command remained committed to drug demand reduction through treatment and rehabilitation programmes.

He revealed that 65 persons suffering from substance use disorders received counselling and rehabilitation services, while another 227 individuals, including 55 women, benefited from brief interventions and psychological support.

According to him, rehabilitation remains an essential component of the national drug control strategy, stressing that individuals battling addiction require treatment, support and reintegration rather than stigmatisation.

Gidado, however, identified inadequate logistics as a major challenge limiting the expansion of anti-drug operations across the state.

He said surveillance of remote border communities, intelligence gathering, patrol operations and sustained public enlightenment campaigns require additional operational vehicles, communication equipment and other resources.

“Drug trafficking networks are highly organised, mobile and well-funded. To sustain pressure on traffickers and effectively secure vulnerable border corridors, increased logistics support from government and stakeholders is imperative,” he said.

The commander commended the Sokoto State Government for supporting the agency’s operations, describing its assistance as crucial to strengthening intelligence gathering and operational effectiveness.

He also praised the Sultanate Council for mobilising communities against drug abuse through its traditional and religious influence.

Gidado further acknowledged the collaboration of sister security agencies, civil society organisations, community leaders and media practitioners, as well as members of the public who provide actionable intelligence to the agency.

He warned drug traffickers, illicit drug dealers and operators of illegal pharmacies that the agency would intensify enforcement against cannabis cultivators, trafficking syndicates and distributors of controlled substances.

“The devastating effects of drug abuse continue to threaten families, schools, workplaces and communities while undermining national development and public safety,” he said.

The NDLEA boss urged parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders and youth organisations to play more active roles in preventing substance abuse through awareness campaigns and community vigilance.

He also encouraged citizens to report suspicious drug-related activities and advised Nigerians travelling abroad, particularly to countries with strict anti-drug laws, to obtain NDLEA clearance certificates where required.

Gidado further highlighted the agency’s 24-hour toll-free counselling and reporting services, assuring the public that all information received would be treated confidentially.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to achieving a drug-free society through enforcement, prevention, public education and rehabilitation.

“The fight against drug abuse is a fight for the future of our nation. We remain resolute in protecting our communities and safeguarding future generations from the devastating consequences of illicit drugs,” he said.

The commander noted that the statistics recorded in Sokoto underscore the need for stronger collaboration, enhanced border security, expanded rehabilitation services and sustained public awareness to curb illicit drug trafficking and its links to insecurity.