The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kaduna State arrested 1,290 individuals and seized over 4,589 kilograms of illicit substances in 2024, marking significant progress in its anti-drug efforts.
The arrests and confiscations, spanning January to December, were achieved through a series of operations targeting drug traffickers, users, and enablers, according to Kaduna State NDLEA Commander, Mr. Samaila Danmalam. Among the substances seized were cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, tramadol, rohypnol, and other psychotropic drugs.
In addition to drug confiscations, the NDLEA intercepted ammunition, including 2,023 rounds of 9mm and 7.62mm bullets, along with two firearms—a pistol and a locally fabricated gun. The command also dismantled 124 illicit drug dens and confiscated counterfeit N1,000 notes amounting to ₦4.8 million.
Danmalam noted that while the kinetic approach has been effective, public education and rehabilitation play vital roles in combating drug abuse. In 2024, the command organized sensitization campaigns, counselling programs, and rehabilitation services to reintegrate drug users into society.
Legal actions against offenders yielded 189 prosecutions, with 155 convictions resulting in prison sentences ranging from two to 15 years. Danmalam expressed appreciation to state authorities, community leaders, and civil society groups for their collaboration in fostering a safer, drug-free environment.
He also urged the public to continue providing timely and actionable information to support NDLEA’s efforts in eradicating drug-related crimes.
Beyond Kaduna, the NDLEA has recorded similar successes across Nigeria. In Lagos, operatives intercepted 1,960 kilogrammes of cannabis and apprehended six foreign nationals. In Edo State, a December 23 raid in Benin City led to the arrest of Kosisochukwu Ozigbo (21), along with the seizure of 32,490 tramadol pills, 936 bottles of codeine syrup, and other opioids.
These actions align with the NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), which emphasizes public education and collaboration to address the drug menace across Nigeria.
