NDLEA seizes drugs worth ₦134.2 billion in 2024

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Tincan Island Port Strategic Command has urged Nigerians to unite in combating drug abuse to safeguard the future of children and promote nationwide socioeconomic well-being.

The call was made by the Commander of Narcotics, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, during the command’s annual awards ceremony in Lagos.

The event recognised outstanding officers for their contributions to the fight against drug trafficking and reviewed the command’s activities in the past year.

Major milestones in 2024

Mr. Ofoyeju announced that the command seized 339,576.91 kilograms of illicit substances, including cocaine and heroin, valued at ₦134.2 billion.

He listed the breakdown as follows: codeine 305,323.37 kg; tapentadol 13,370 kg; tafradol 11,230.8 kg; benzhexol 5,888.8 kg; cannabis indica 3,601.25 kg; methamphetamine 83.301 kg; cocaine 56.39 kg; and heroin 23 kg.odeine: 305,323.37 kg

The commander revealed that 38 suspects, including one female, were arrested in connection with drug trafficking. Of these, 12 were convicted, while 26 cases remain pending in court.

The nexus between drugs, crime

Ofoyeju highlighted the correlation between drug abuse and societal issues such as domestic violence, insecurity, and organised crime.

He noted the critical role of the NDLEA in breaking drug supply chains and reducing crime rates.

“Drugs and crime are intertwined. Cartels either use drug proceeds to fund criminal acts or rely on drugs to perpetrate heinous activities. Our vigilant operations have significantly contributed to the peace enjoyed nationwide and enhanced the maritime industry’s conducive business environment,” he stated.

The commander also cited a notable case in January 2024, where narcotics, firearms, and ammunition were discovered in a container, underscoring the command’s vigilance.

Recognizing excellence

To encourage excellence, the command presented awards to outstanding officers, including: Most Productive Officer-in-Charge: ACN Adefunke Akindele, Most Enterprising Officer: ACN Muje Stephen, WADA Facilitator of the Year: ACN Salihu Isa Machi, Most Dedicated Officer: CSN Audu Samuel, and Best Dressed Officer: SNA Mohammed Musa

A special award for Best WADA Media Partner was given to Mr. Davidson Iriekpen of This Day Newspapers for his commitment to anti-drug awareness.

Public awareness, collaboration

The NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign was highlighted as a cornerstone of its operations.

Ofoyeju noted that public education and community awareness programs are vital in curbing drug trafficking and abuse.

Assistant Commander of Narcotics, Mr. Isal Salihu, outlined the command’s comprehensive strategy, which includes drug seizures, arrests, and prosecutions.

He revealed that many confiscated drugs originated from countries like Canada, India, and South Africa, emphasising that every container and country is treated as a potential suspect.

Celebrating achievements

The event featured the launch of the Tincan Strategic Command’s quarterly newsletter, aimed at informing stakeholders about the command’s activities and fostering collaboration in the fight against drug abuse.

High-ranking officials from sister agencies, including Immigration, Police, DSS, and port associations, attended the ceremony, reflecting broad support for the NDLEA’s mission to create a drug-free Nigeria.