The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded major progress in its ongoing war against drug abuse and trafficking, announcing the arrest of 45,853 suspects and the seizure of more than 8.5 million kilograms of illicit drugs over the last 30 months.
The agency also secured 9,263 convictions within the same period, according to NDLEA Chairman, retired Brigadier General Buba Marwa, who disclosed this during the agency’s award and commendation ceremony held on Wednesday in Abuja.
Marwa commended NDLEA operatives for their unwavering commitment in combating substance abuse and drug trafficking nationwide, noting that their efforts align with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.
At the event, 220 officers were recognized for outstanding performance, while 15 senior officials were decorated with new ranks.
“Today, we honour those who have gone above and beyond, choosing integrity, selflessness, and dedication in the face of danger and temptation,” Marwa said.
He added that the agency’s efforts have yielded significant results: over 45,000 arrests, the confiscation of 8.5 million kilograms of illegal substances, and the rehabilitation of 26,613 drug users through NDLEA treatment facilities across the country.
Within the same period, the agency conducted 9,848 War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization campaigns across schools, workplaces, markets, worship centers, and communities.
Marwa emphasized that while remarkable progress has been made, the fight against drug trafficking and abuse remains a major national challenge threatening Nigeria’s social fabric, economy, and security.
“Drug trafficking fuels crime, corrupts our youth, and funds terrorism and insurgency,” he warned, stressing that each successful operation represents a major victory against organized criminal networks.
The NDLEA boss also highlighted the importance of the agency’s reward and recognition system, designed to motivate officers and sustain high morale.
“We will continue to reward dedication, loyalty, and integrity through initiatives like the CCEO Commands Awards and Commendations,” he noted, adding that the system has strengthened the agency’s work ethic over the years.
Marwa acknowledged that the NDLEA had previously struggled due to limited resources but said recent improvements in capacity are helping the agency dismantle drug cartels and disrupt their operations.
He urged officers to always adhere to the agency’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure both effective operations and personal safety.
Expressing gratitude to partners and supporters, Marwa thanked the media for its collaboration, as well as international allies such as the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), the UK Border Force, and the governments of France and Germany.
He also acknowledged the backing of the National Assembly Committees on Narcotic Drugs, the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary, and President Bola Tinubu for their continued support.
“Most importantly, we thank Nigerians for embracing our reforms and standing with us in this collective effort to rid the nation of illicit drugs,” Marwa concluded.