The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) arrested 18,500 suspected drug traffickers and seized 2.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs in 2024, according to the agency’s chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa.
Marwa shared these details on Tuesday during the inauguration of the NDLEA Central Exhibit Office in Ikoyi, Lagos. The office, which was donated by the U.S. Government, will enhance the agency’s ability to securely handle drug-related evidence, facilitating successful prosecutions.
The NDLEA chief credited the agency’s progress in drug supply and demand reduction to continued international support, particularly from the U.S. government. Marwa also emphasised the challenges that remain in tackling drug trafficking and abuse.
In 2024, the agency made significant strides, including securing over 3,250 convictions, dismantling over 220 hectares of cannabis farms, and rehabilitating more than 8,200 drug abusers. Marwa called for continued collaboration with international partners to combat the dynamic nature of the illicit drug trade.
