Nigeria Seizes N1.5trn in Drugs, Records 5,225 Convictions

The Nigerian government, through the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), announced significant achievements in combating drug abuse and trafficking, seizing illicit drugs valued at N1.5 trillion and securing 5,225 convictions over an 18-month period. At the ongoing National Drug Use Summit in Abuja, the NDLEA revealed that its operations led to 29,262 arrests and the seizure of 5,305,484.88 kilograms of assorted illicit drugs.

The summit, themed around addressing illicit drug use and trafficking, was attended by key figures including Georg Akum, representing the federal government, and Brig Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa, the NDLEA's Chief Executive Officer. The government reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives aimed at preventing drug abuse, dismantling trafficking networks, and expanding access to treatment and rehabilitation services.

The NDLEA also highlighted the importance of community awareness programs and the need for a comprehensive approach to reduce drug supply and demand.