The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in combating drug trafficking, reporting an impressive seizure of 2.4 million kilograms of illicit drugs between January and October 2024. Under the leadership of Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retired), the agency has not only surpassed its previous years’ performance but also set a new benchmark in national drug interdiction efforts.
The agency’s comprehensive operational strategy has yielded substantial results, including the arrest of 14,480 drug offenders, among them 15 high-profile drug barons. This systematic approach has resulted in 2,867 court convictions, significantly disrupting drug trafficking networks across Nigeria’s seaports, airports, land borders, and local communities.
Strategic Enforcement and Community Engagement Yield Positive Outcomes
Beyond traditional law enforcement, the NDLEA has adopted a holistic approach to drug control, focusing on both interdiction and rehabilitation. The agency conducted 3,064 awareness campaigns and sensitization lectures, reaching an impressive 1,327,181 individuals across various societal segments including schools, motor parks, worship centers, and workplaces.
The organization’s rehabilitation efforts have been equally noteworthy, with 6,655 drug users receiving counseling and support during this period. A significant achievement was the destruction of 547,378 kilograms of cannabis plantations, demonstrating the agency’s commitment to eliminating drug cultivation at its source.
NDLEA Landmark Achievements Highlight Agency’s Operational Excellence
The NDLEA’s operational year has been marked by several groundbreaking achievements. The largest single heroin seizure of 51.90 kg at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in February stands as a testament to the agency’s enhanced interdiction capabilities. Moreover, securing life imprisonment sentences for notorious drug traffickers sends a strong message about the consequences of drug-related criminal activities.
The recent passage of the NDLEA Act amendment bill further strengthens the agency’s legal framework, providing enhanced tools and authority to combat drug trafficking more effectively. These legislative and operational advancements position the NDLEA as a critical institution in Nigeria’s fight against narcotics.
Legislative Support and Future Outlook
The House of Representatives Committee on Narcotic Drugs has expressed unwavering support for the NDLEA’s mission. Committee Chairman Hon. Abass Adigun committed to advocating for improved funding, modern investigative tools, and a conducive working environment for agency personnel.
General Marwa emphasized that while significant progress has been made, the agency remains committed to achieving its full potential. With continued legislative support and resource allocation, the NDLEA aims to comprehensively address the challenge of illicit drugs in Nigeria, ultimately contributing to national security and public health.
The report not only highlights the NDLEA’s impressive achievements but also underscores the critical role of coordinated law enforcement, community engagement, and legislative support in combating drug-related challenges.
Lawmakers Pledge Continued Support
The House of Representatives Committee on Narcotic Drugs, led by Hon. Abass Adigun, expressed satisfaction with the NDLEA’s performance and pledged unwavering support to enhance the agency’s capabilities.
“We commend your leadership and the resilience of your personnel under challenging conditions. Our committee will advocate for improved funding, modern tools, and a conducive working environment to ensure the agency remains effective,” Adigun assured.
The lawmakers acknowledged the critical role of the NDLEA in safeguarding the nation from the scourge of illicit drugs, emphasizing the need for sustained collaboration and resource allocation to achieve the agency’s objectives.
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