In an unprecedented move to reinforce Nigeria’s war against drug trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Saturday incinerated a staggering 1.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs, marking the largest single destruction of narcotics in its history.
The high-impact event, staged at a remote location in Ipara, Ogun State, along the bustling Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, attracted a formidable gathering of top government officials, security operatives, traditional rulers, international anti-narcotics partners, and representatives from leading financial institutions.
According to a statement by NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, the massive drug haul comprised a toxic cocktail of narcotics seized over time by NDLEA operatives across various command zones—Lagos Strategic Command, Ogun and Oyo State Commands, Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos Seaports, Idiroko, and Seme Border Commands, falling under the agency’s Zone 9 and Zone 11 operational jurisdictions.
Among the incinerated substances were:
123kg of cocaine
46.8kg of heroin
1.4 million kg of cannabis
148,000kg of codeine syrup
3,244kg of tramadol
1,544kg of skuchies (locally mixed psychoactive substances)
111kg of methamphetamine
The monumental bonfire of drugs wasn’t merely ceremonial—it was a powerful statement. NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), represented by the Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, declared the Agency’s unwavering commitment to obliterating drug trafficking networks in the country.
> “The sheer volume of these seizures is a stark reminder of the grave danger these substances pose to our society,” Marwa stated. “This destruction is not just symbolic—it is scientific, legally-backed, and carried out with precision. We are sending an unambiguous message to drug traffickers: the days of impunity are over.”
Marwa revealed that over the last four years, the agency has recorded 10,572 convictions, a milestone that underscores the growing momentum in Nigeria’s drug war. He also reaffirmed the NDLEA’s dedication to prosecuting offenders and safeguarding communities across the country.
In a show of gratitude, Marwa praised state governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Seyi Makinde (Oyo) for their steadfast support of NDLEA’s operations. He further acknowledged the critical backing of global partners including the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), UK National Crime Agency (NCA), and law enforcement from France and Germany. Corporate supporters like First Bank, Fidelity Bank, and Sterling Bank, as well as Nigeria’s military, police, customs, immigration, FRSC, and NAFDAC, were also commended for their contributions to the fight against drug trafficking.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, retired Assistant Inspector General Olusola Subair hailed the NDLEA’s courage and professionalism, emphasizing that their actions are saving lives and fortifying the nation’s security framework.
“The NDLEA is not only enforcing laws—they are rescuing our youth, rebuilding communities, and restoring hope,” Subair remarked.
Governor Abiodun’s message also called for a multi-pronged approach to stem the tide of drug abuse, describing it as a social, economic, and public health emergency.
> “We must go beyond seizures and arrests. Let’s invest in prevention through education, counselling, youth empowerment, and rehabilitation. It’s time to break the cycle of addiction and restore dignity to countless lives,” he said.
The NDLEA’s massive drug destruction campaign stands as a bold statement of intent—one that sends ripples across the underworld and reassures law-abiding citizens that the fight against narcotics is being waged with renewed vigor and iron resolve.
PIONEER NEWS 