In a landmark operation, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed an unprecedented 1.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs, marking the largest single seizure and destruction in the agency’s history.

The drugs were seized across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states and include a staggering array of narcotics, from 123 kilograms of cocaine to over 1.4 million kilograms of cannabis.

The public destruction, held on Saturday, 12th April 2025, at Ipara along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State, was witnessed by top government officials, traditional leaders, clergymen, security agencies, and international partners.

Among the drugs destroyed were 148,000 kilograms of codeine syrup, 3,244.26 kilograms of tramadol, and 111 kilograms of methamphetamine.

Speaking at the event, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman and CEO of NDLEA, affirmed the agency’s unwavering resolve in eradicating the country’s drug crisis.

“The sheer volume of these seizures – approximately 1.6 million kilograms – underscores the monumental danger these substances pose to public health. Our duty is clear: to reduce these drugs to rubble, ensuring they no longer poison our communities,” Marwa stated.

He issued a stern warning to drug traffickers: “To those still involved in the illicit drug trade, we will continue to remind them: times have changed.

“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully committed to tackling this scourge, and we are prepared to hold accountable anyone who defies the law. In the past four years alone, 10,572 traffickers have been successfully prosecuted and convicted.”

The NDLEA also highlighted the importance of the transparent and forensic nature of the destruction process.

Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, Director of Assets and Financial Investigation at the agency, explained that the destruction was carried out under court approval after all cases linked to the seized substances had been closed, with laboratory tests confirming the authenticity of the drugs.

“This is not just symbolic; it is a testament to our commitment to transparency and accountability in our fight against drug trafficking. The sheer scale of the drugs destroyed today reflects the continuing challenge we face,” Abdul added.

Marwa expressed gratitude for the support received from local and international partners, including the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), the French and German police, and Nigerian institutions such as the Military, Customs, Police, and Civil Defence.

He praised the collaborative spirit essential for fighting the drug epidemic.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Special Adviser on Security, AIG Olusola Subair (Rtd), commended the NDLEA for its relentless efforts in intercepting illicit drugs before they reach the streets.

He emphasized the importance of prevention through education, counseling, and youth empowerment programs, as well as strengthening rehabilitation centers for those battling addiction.

“This is not just a law enforcement issue; it is a social, economic, and public health crisis. We must invest in prevention and support for those affected by drug addiction,” Governor Abiodun remarked.

The massive destruction serves as a stark reminder of the NDLEA’s dedication to purging Nigeria of illicit drugs and sending a powerful message to traffickers: there is no safe haven for their operations.