A Landmark Operation
In a significant move to combat drug abuse and trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed 25 tons of illicit drugs in Kogi State. The public destruction event, held in Lokoja on Wednesday, underscores the agency’s commitment to tackling the drug menace that continues to threaten Nigeria’s security and public health.
The Breakdown: What Was Destroyed?
The NDLEA, led by Chairman Brig. General Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd), revealed the staggering volume and variety of drugs seized and destroyed. The 25,229.238 kilograms of illicit substances included:
Cannabis Sativa: 20,000.316 kg
Tramadol: 476.864 kg
Codeine-based syrup: 2,393.94 kg
Cocaine: 1.888 kg
Heroin: 0.215 kg
Methamphetamine: 34.208 kg
Other substances destroyed included Rohypnol, Diazepam, Pentazocine injection, and Akuskura (NPS), among others. These drugs, if allowed to circulate, could have exacerbated insecurity and drug abuse in Kogi State and beyond.
The Bigger Picture: Nigeria’s Drug Crisis
Brig. General Marwa highlighted the alarming statistics from the 2018 National Drug Use Survey, which revealed that 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15–64 abuse drugs. Of these, 10.6 million abuse cannabis, making Nigeria one of the countries with the highest rates of cannabis abuse globally.
“The statistics are worrisome when you look beyond the figures to their health and security implications,” Marwa said. He emphasized the NDLEA’s aggressive efforts to address the crisis since his appointment in January 2021.
Kogi State’s Commitment: A Collaborative Effort
Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by State Security Adviser Commodore Jerry Omodara (retd), expressed his administration’s concern over the prevalence of illicit drugs in the state. The governor pledged continued support for the NDLEA’s efforts to rid Kogi of drug-related crimes and ensure the safety of its citizens.
Why This Matters
The destruction of 25 tons of illicit drugs is a significant achievement in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. However, it also highlights the scale of the challenge facing Nigeria. The NDLEA’s efforts are crucial in addressing the health, social, and security implications of drug abuse, which fuel crime, violence, and instability.
A Step Toward a Drug-Free Nigeria
The NDLEA’s operation in Kogi State is a reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and abuse. While the destruction of 25 tons of illicit substances is a major victory, sustained efforts and collaboration between federal and state agencies are essential to achieving a drug-free Nigeria.
As the NDLEA continues its aggressive campaign, the hope is that such operations will not only disrupt drug networks but also raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, ultimately safeguarding the future of millions of Nigerians.
