NDLEA Targets Drug Barons' Assets in New Initiative

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), under the leadership of Chairman Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), is intensifying its efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks in Nigeria. During a joint press briefing at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime headquarters in Abuja, Marwa announced a strategic initiative aimed at targeting the financial assets of drug barons.

This initiative is part of a weeklong series of activities to mark the 2026 World Drug Day. Marwa emphasized that the agency's approach is not limited to arresting traffickers but also involves liquidating financial assets linked to drug crimes.

The NDLEA plans to deploy civil action rem instruments to forfeit assets suspected to be proceeds of drug crime, thereby cutting off the financial lifeblood of criminal networks. The agency has recorded an unprecedented conviction rate, aided by the Proceeds of Crime Act, which strengthens its capacity to pursue the financial interests of drug barons beyond criminal prosecution.

The NDLEA's offensive actions against drug cartels began in January 2021 and continue to maintain relentless momentum.