Anietie Udobit, Abuja
The Chairman/chief executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Marwa (rtd) has said the agency arrested 18,500 suspects in 2024.
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According to him, “So far, the results have been justifying. In 2024, we seized over 2.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs. Across the country, we arrested more than 18,500 drug trafficking offenders. Got over 3,250 convicted, including 10 drug barons, with more than 220 hectares of cannabis farms destroyed, while in the same breath, we counselled and rehabilitated over 8, 200, with more than 3,000 sensitisation and advocacy programmes organized across the country in schools, markets, motor parks, worship centres, workplaces and communities, among others, thus creating an equipoise between our drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.”
Marwa stated this at the commissioning of the central exhibit office donated by the US government to NDLEA at the agency’s headquarters annex in Ikoyi, Lagos, yesterday.
NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi said the facility was handed over to the NDLEA boss by the US Consulate General, Ms. Jo Ellen Georg, supported by other senior US officials.
While commending the United States government as a reliable ally in Nigeria’s renewed efforts to combat drug-related crimes, Marwa said the continued collaboration with the US has been infinite and has bolstered and enhanced NDLEA’s operational capabilities.
According to him, “Today, I am particularly pleased to acknowledge one of such gestures, namely the donation of the office for our central exhibit custodians. This donation acknowledges the critical need for efficient and secure handling of evidence, which is essential for the successful prosecution of drug-related cases. This contribution will not only strengthen our operational framework but also set a new standard for accountability and transparency in drug law enforcement. It is an investment in the security and the future of our nations.”
He said despite the agency’s improved performance, “we recognise that the war against drug trafficking and abuse is far from over. As an organisation, we are committed to surmounting the challenges.”
The NDLEA said the challenges notwithstanding, tremendous successes have been recorded on all fronts against the drug menace.
While calling for continuous support and more collaboration from the US government and other partners, Marwa said the challenges of illicit drugs are dynamic and multifaceted and, as such, require continuous partnership and innovation.