The Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has made substantial progress in its anti-drug trafficking operations, arresting 50,901 offenders, including 46 high-profile drug barons, over the past three years. The agency’s Chairman, Brig-Gen Muhammed Marwa (retd.), announced these figures during the inauguration of a new operational facility in Lagos, a project supported by the British Government.
Convictions and Seizures
Under Brig-Gen Marwa’s leadership, the NDLEA has not only apprehended thousands of suspects but also achieved 9,034 convictions, underscoring the agency’s commitment to curbing drug-related crimes in Nigeria. Additionally, the agency has seized over 7,561 tonnes of illicit substances, delivering a significant blow to the drug trafficking networks operating within and beyond the nation’s borders.
Strategic Operations
The NDLEA has also been active in disrupting the cultivation of illicit drugs. Over the last three years, the agency has destroyed more than 1,000 hectares of cannabis farms. This effort is part of a broader “search and destroy” campaign targeting illegal drug crop cultivation across the country.
In a new strategic move, Brig-Gen Marwa highlighted the agency’s plans to control cannabis cultivation more effectively. He mentioned the establishment of an alternative development unit within his office, which will focus on encouraging cannabis growers to switch to legal, alternative crops, thereby reducing the number of illicit drug sources.
International Support and Cooperation
During the facility’s inauguration, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jonny Baxter, reiterated the UK’s ongoing support for the NDLEA’s efforts. The new operational building is expected to enhance the agency’s capabilities to combat drug trafficking and other related criminal activities. Baxter emphasized the global nature of the drug trafficking problem and the need for continued international cooperation to effectively address these challenges.
Recent High-Profile Operations
The NDLEA has recently conducted some high-profile operations, including the interception of the largest single heroin consignment at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja. This operation led to the arrest of members of an organized crime group involved in trafficking heroin through multiple countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, Mozambique, Europe, and America.
Ongoing Challenges and Efforts
While the NDLEA has made significant strides in its anti-drug endeavors, the fight against drug trafficking continues to pose complex challenges. The agency remains committed to evolving its strategies and enhancing its operational capacities to keep pace with the sophisticated nature of global drug networks.
The continued support from international partners like the UK plays a crucial role in the NDLEA’s ability to maintain and expand its anti-drug trafficking operations, ensuring that Nigeria can effectively contribute to the global effort against the illegal drug trade.
