By Oluwakemi Kindness
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Monday destroyed illicit drugs worth an estimated N301 billion in Lagos, as the agency intensifies its crackdown on drug trafficking networks across Nigeria.
The court-ordered destruction involved 329,865.585 kilograms of assorted narcotics seized in Lagos between April 2025 and May 2026.
The drugs included cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, cannabis, ephedrine, tramadol, codeine syrup, other opioids and khat leaf.
The NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), said the exercise is a demonstration of Nigeria’s determination to deny criminal networks the resources needed to operate.
Marwa according to a statement by Femi Babafemi, NDLEA spokesperson, warns drug barons, traffickers, financiers and dealers that the agency would continue to pursue their networks and financial operations.
“Wherever you hide, whoever sponsors you and however sophisticated your network may be, the long arm of the law will reach you.”
He said illicit drug trafficking also contributes to organised crime, terrorism and violent extremism by providing funding for criminal activities.
Marwa called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, the judiciary, government institutions, communities and the public to tackle drug abuse and trafficking.
The Lagos State Government also pledged continued support for the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, commended the NDLEA’s operations, saying the destruction sends a strong message to drug dealers that they are no longer welcome in Nigeria.
Adeniyi said drug trafficking provides financial support for violent groups, including bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers and terrorists.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, also reaffirmed the Navy’s support for the NDLEA’s drug control operations.
The NDLEA said the destroyed drugs were from concluded court cases and abandoned seizures, following orders from the Federal High Court in Lagos.
