The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) waged a relentless war against illicit drug trafficking and abuse in the first quarter of 2025, achieving significant results across various fronts. From January to March, the agency seized a staggering 357,796.65kg of illicit substances, encompassing a wide range of narcotics. Simultaneously, they apprehended 4,803 suspects involved in drug-related offenses, emphasizing the agency’s proactive approach to dismantling drug networks and bringing perpetrators to justice. This comprehensive effort underscores the NDLEA’s commitment to curbing the pervasive issue of drug abuse that continues to plague the nation.
The breakdown of the seized narcotics reveals the prevalence of cannabis, accounting for the bulk of the confiscated substances at 233,854.80kg. However, the agency’s operations extended beyond cannabis, targeting a spectrum of other illicit drugs. Significant seizures included 138.39kg of cocaine, 14.19kg of heroin, and 52.35kg of methamphetamine, highlighting the agency’s efforts to disrupt the trafficking of highly potent and addictive substances. Furthermore, the NDLEA confiscated substantial quantities of tramadol (943.06kg), rohypnol (6.17kg), codeine-based cough syrup (66,604.37kg), diazepam (320.07kg), and other illicit drugs (2,878.64kg), demonstrating their comprehensive approach to tackling the multifaceted nature of drug trafficking. The agency also disrupted the cultivation of cannabis, destroying a substantial 252,984.59kg of cannabis farms, striking at the source of this widely abused substance.
Beyond enforcement activities, the NDLEA prioritized rehabilitation and education as crucial components of its comprehensive strategy. A total of 1,955 individuals received counseling services, while 373 individuals underwent rehabilitation programs. These initiatives aim to address the demand side of the drug problem by providing support and guidance to those struggling with addiction, facilitating their recovery and reintegration into society. The agency’s multifaceted approach recognizes that enforcement alone is insufficient and that a balanced approach encompassing prevention, treatment, and harm reduction is essential for effectively combating the drug menace.
The NDLEA’s outreach and sensitization efforts also played a significant role in raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse within communities. The agency engaged with 510,111 individuals through various channels, disseminating information and promoting healthy lifestyles. Additionally, they conducted 1,262 sensitization programs nationwide within the three-month period, further amplifying their message and fostering community involvement in the fight against drug abuse. These proactive initiatives emphasize the importance of education and community engagement in preventing drug experimentation and promoting a drug-free environment.
A monthly analysis of the NDLEA’s operations reveals consistent efforts throughout the first quarter. In January, the agency arrested 1,610 suspects and secured 307 convictions. February witnessed 1,623 arrests and 351 convictions, while in March, 1,570 arrests led to 398 convictions. This consistent level of activity demonstrates the NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to pursuing drug offenders and ensuring that they are held accountable for their actions. The data also highlights the agency’s effectiveness in navigating the legal system and successfully prosecuting drug-related cases.
Despite these commendable efforts, the NDLEA faces challenges in its fight against drug abuse. Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, expressed concern over the lack of functional State Drug Control Committees in most Nigerian states. With only nine states having effective committees, the absence of widespread state-level support hampers the agency’s efforts to implement comprehensive drug control strategies across the country. This lack of coordination and collaboration at the state level represents a significant obstacle to achieving nationwide success in combating drug abuse. Addressing this issue through increased advocacy and collaboration with state governments is crucial for maximizing the impact of the NDLEA’s efforts.
