NDLEA Destroys Record 1.6 Million Kilograms of Illicit Drugs in Landmark Operation Across South-West Nigeria
…Marwa Warns Drug Barons: “Times Have Changed, No Safe Haven for Criminals”
In an intensified crackdown on drug trafficking in Nigeria, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Saturday, 12th April 2025, publicly destroyed approximately 1.6 million kilograms of seized illicit drugs—the largest volume ever incinerated in the history of the Agency.
The symbolic yet strategic destruction exercise, which took place at an isolated site in Ipara along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State, featured heaps of narcotics confiscated across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states.
According to a statement signed by Femi Babafemi, Director, Media and Advocacy at the NDLEA, the event drew a wide range of dignitaries, including government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, security agencies, international partners, and community leaders.
Among the substances destroyed were 1.4 million kilograms of cannabis, 123 kilograms of cocaine, 46.8 kilograms of heroin, 3,244.26 kilograms of tramadol, 148,000 kilograms of codeine syrup, 1,544 kilograms of skuchies (a mixture of illicit drugs), and 111 kilograms of methamphetamine.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the operation as a firm testament to the Agency’s unwavering commitment to ridding Nigeria of the scourge of illicit drugs.
“The sheer volume of seizures, which totals approximately 1.6 million kilograms, serves as a reminder of the grave danger these substances pose to public health until they are completely and irreversibly destroyed,” Marwa stated in his address, which was delivered by Dr Ibrahim Abdul, NDLEA’s Director of Assets and Financial Investigation. “At all times, we discharge this duty with the utmost seriousness and diligence.”
General Marwa issued a stern warning to drug traffickers, declaring that Nigeria is no longer a safe zone for their activities. “To those still involved in the illicit drug trade, we will persist in reminding them that times have changed.
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering in its commitment to providing the leadership and political will required to eradicate this menace,” he affirmed.
According to Marwa, the NDLEA has, over the last four years, successfully prosecuted and secured the conviction of 10,572 drug offenders, all of whom are currently serving various jail terms.
He extended his appreciation to Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, and Seyi Makinde of Oyo, for their continuous support to the Agency’s commands and operations in their respective jurisdictions.
Dr Abdul, who represented Marwa, justified the public nature of the drug destruction, citing transparency and accountability as key motivations.
“By making this process open, we affirm our collective resolve against the insidious activities of illicit drug trafficking. This exercise is not merely symbolic—it is forensic, grounded in evidence. Random laboratory tests are carried out to confirm the authenticity of the seized items. The substances are destroyed with court approval after the conclusion of legal proceedings related to their seizure,” he said.
He further explained that the exercise represents a major milestone, marking the destruction of the largest quantity of narcotics ever seized under NDLEA’s Zone 9 and Zone 11, covering the Lagos Strategic Command, Ogun State Command, Oyo State Command, MMIA Strategic Command, Lagos Seaports, Idiroko Border Command, and Seme Border Command.
While commending the dedication of NDLEA officers who continue to work tirelessly to curb the trafficking and abuse of drugs, Marwa also thanked local and international partners for their consistent support.
He acknowledged vital contributions from global allies including the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA), the UK Border Force, the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), the French and German Police, and others.
He also recognised the support of financial institutions such as First Bank of Nigeria, Fidelity Bank, and Sterling Bank, as well as stakeholders from the Nigerian Military, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Police, Civil Defence, Immigration, FRSC, NAFDAC, and numerous others, describing them as “pillars of the collaborative effort needed to tackle the drug epidemic”.
In his remarks, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Special Adviser on Security, AIG Olusola Subair (Rtd), lauded the NDLEA for its courage, professionalism, and consistent efforts in intercepting drugs before they reach communities.
“Their work in saving lives, strengthening communities, and upholding the rule of law is well appreciated,” he said.
Governor Abiodun stressed the need for a holistic approach to the drug crisis, calling it a social, economic, and public health emergency. “We must invest in prevention through education, counselling, and youth empowerment initiatives. We must strengthen rehabilitation centres and provide support systems for those battling addiction,” he added.
The destruction ceremony not only marks a triumph for drug enforcement but also reinforces Nigeria’s resolve to confront drug trafficking with unprecedented intensity and cooperation.
