A ceremony was held in Badagry, Lagos State, where the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency destroyed a total of 304,436kg kilograms and 40,042 litres of illicit substances seized from various parts of Lagos and Ogun states.
Brig Gen Buba Marwa (retd), the Chairman of the agency, emphasized that the open destruction of the seized illicit drugs was conducted in compliance with court orders.
He urged for increased public support towards the NDLEA and other stakeholders’ ongoing efforts to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking within Nigeria.
Marwa explained, “The public destruction of confiscated illicit drugs is a routine exercise mandated by the court at the conclusion of related cases, including illicit substances like cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and tramadol, among others in solid and liquid forms.”
The Chairman highlighted that the seized drugs were confiscated by NDLEA operatives across different formations in Lagos and Ogun states, particularly at seaports, airports, and land borders since January 2022.
“Today, on court orders, we are here to destroy solid drugs weighing 304,436.055kg and 40,042.621 litres of liquid drugs. The significant quantity of seized drugs reflects the extensive activities of the drug underworld,” Marwa stated.
He also expressed gratitude towards local and international partners such as the American Drug Enforcement Administration, United Kingdom NCA, Border Force, German, French, Indian NCB, and others for their collaboration on various drug busts.
Emphasizing the agency’s commitment to eradicating drug-related issues, Marwa called for continued public support for NDLEA initiatives.
“Ensuring the safety of our society relies on all of us. Every citizen has a duty to support the agency’s War Against Drug Abuse campaign for a cleaner and safer Nigeria,” he added.
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, lauded NDLEA’s efforts in combating illicit drugs, stating, “Illicit drugs are a root cause of numerous crimes. Therefore, the Lagos State Government appreciates the agency’s steadfast fight against drug trafficking.”
He also commended NDLEA for extending the War Against Drug Abuse social advocacy campaign to schools and communities across Lagos State.
“The agency’s dedication is evident, and the state will continue to partner with NDLEA and its leadership,” Sanwo-Olu affirmed.