The National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its efforts to combat drug trafficking in Nigeria’s maritime sector. Between June 2024 and June 2025, the Apapa Strategic Seaport Command, a crucial maritime hub, intercepted a staggering 14 containers laden with various psychotropic substances. This seizure, highlighted during the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, underscores the persistent challenge of drug smuggling through Nigeria’s ports and the NDLEA’s resolute commitment to dismantling these networks. The command’s Assistant Commander-General of Narcotics, Buba Wakawa, revealed that the confiscated drugs included a massive 774,635 bottles of codeine-based syrups and 36,652,460 tramadol tablets. The sheer volume of these seized substances, totaling approximately 132 tonnes, paints a stark picture of the scale of the illicit drug trade flowing through Nigeria’s ports.
The 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed under the theme “Evidence Is Clear: Invest in prevention, break the cycle,” provided a platform for the NDLEA to emphasize the urgency of collaborative efforts to tackle drug abuse and trafficking. Wakawa stressed the significance of the occasion, highlighting the devastating impact of drug abuse on public health, the economy, and national security. He cited a 2018 United Nations Drugs Survey, which estimated that a staggering 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 had used drugs in the years preceding the survey, a stark indicator of the widespread nature of the drug problem in the country. The theme for 2025, he explained, aligns with the objectives of the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, spearheaded by NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Buba Marwa.
The maritime sector, while vital for economic growth and global trade, is also vulnerable to exploitation by criminal elements involved in drug trafficking. Wakawa acknowledged the importance of maritime trade but underscored the need to fortify security measures to prevent its misuse for illicit activities. He emphasized the NDLEA’s determination to disrupt drug import and export distribution networks operating within the maritime domain. Of particular concern is the diversion of medically beneficial substances like tramadol and codeine-based cough syrups for recreational abuse. These substances, intended for legitimate medical purposes, are increasingly being misused for non-medical reasons, contributing to the growing drug problem. Wakawa issued a stern warning that the NDLEA would not tolerate such misuse within Nigeria’s maritime corridors.
The NDLEA’s outreach during the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking extended beyond the maritime community to engage with schools, students, government agencies, security forces, terminal operators, and other stakeholders. This multi-pronged approach reflects the agency’s commitment to raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and fostering collective responsibility in tackling the issue. The underlying message was clear: no segment of society is immune to the devastating consequences of drug abuse and the associated rise in insecurity. The NDLEA called for a united front against drug dealers and peddlers, recognizing them as a common enemy responsible for fueling insecurity and jeopardizing national health.
The interception of the 14 containers at the Apapa port represents a significant victory in the NDLEA’s ongoing battle against drug trafficking. It underscores the agency’s proactive approach to disrupting drug supply chains and preventing these harmful substances from reaching communities. The sheer quantity of seized drugs, including hundreds of thousands of bottles of codeine syrup and millions of tramadol tablets, highlights the scale of the challenge and the persistent efforts required to combat this illicit trade. The NDLEA’s commitment to strengthening security measures within the maritime sector is crucial to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and preventing the exploitation of trade routes for drug smuggling.
The emphasis on prevention and breaking the cycle of drug abuse is paramount in the NDLEA’s strategy. Engaging with schools, students, and vulnerable populations is crucial for raising awareness about the dangers of drug use and promoting healthy lifestyles. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, security forces, and community organizations, the NDLEA aims to create a united front against drug trafficking and abuse. The message is clear: collective action is essential to break the cycle of drug abuse, protect communities, and build a healthier and safer future for Nigeria. The fight against drug abuse requires sustained vigilance, proactive interventions, and ongoing community engagement to effectively address this complex challenge.
