The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has continued its relentless crackdown on drug trafficking and abuse across Nigeria, recording significant breakthroughs in recent operations. From intercepting cocaine traffickers at international airports to raiding cannabis farms and seizing large quantities of illicit substances, the agency’s efforts underscore its commitment to combating the drug menace. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the latest operations and arrests:

Angolan Businessman Arrested for Cocaine Trafficking

In a major operation at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano, NDLEA operatives arrested 42-year-old Angolan businessman Mbala Abuba for attempting to traffic cocaine to Istanbul, Turkey. Abuba, a native of Zaire Province in Angola, was intercepted on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, while trying to board an Egypt Air flight MS 880 to Istanbul via Cairo.

According to a statement by the NDLEA’s spokesman, Femi Babafemi, a body scan confirmed that Abuba had ingested illicit drugs. He was placed under observation and subsequently excreted 120 pellets of cocaine, weighing 1.829 kilograms, in seven rounds. During interrogation, Abuba claimed he was a township delivery service operator in Angola before venturing into drug trafficking.

Cocaine Concealed in Vehicle Propellers Intercepted in Lagos

In a related operation, NDLEA officers thwarted an attempt by Okeke Igwe, an auto spare parts dealer, to smuggle 1.10kg of cocaine concealed in vehicle propellers to Angola. Igwe was arrested on Monday, February 24, 2025, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos following credible intelligence.

Babafemi revealed that Igwe, who operates a business at the ASPANDA Trade Fair Complex in Ojo, Lagos, claimed to be a legitimate auto parts dealer. However, his involvement in drug trafficking was uncovered during the operation.

Cocaine Bust in Imo State

In another significant operation, NDLEA operatives arrested Ezechi Cyprian on Sunday, February 23, 2025, while transporting 5.40kg of cocaine to Owerri, Imo State, in a Toyota Sienna. The arrest followed weeks of surveillance by the agency. Cyprian’s arrest highlights the NDLEA’s proactive approach to dismantling drug distribution networks across the country.

Canadian Cannabis Strain Seized at Tincan Seaport

At the Tincan Seaport in Lagos, a joint examination by the NDLEA, customs, and other security agencies led to the discovery of 128 parcels of Canadian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, hidden in two mattresses inside a Toyota Venza imported from Canada. The consignment, weighing 63.75kg, was found during an inspection of a container marked TCNU 1945861 from Montreal, Canada.

The consignee of the shipment, 44-year-old Bamidele Joseph, was arrested and taken into custody. This operation underscores the agency’s vigilance in monitoring seaports to prevent the importation of illicit drugs.

Massive Cannabis Farm Raided in Delta State

In Delta State, NDLEA operatives, supported by the military, raided a 20-hectare cannabis farm in Innam-Abbi/Orogun, Ndokwa West Local Government Area. The operation resulted in the destruction of over 50,000kg of illicit crops and the arrest of five suspects: Augustine Subaru (45), Ukoba Malachukwu (53), Odalonu Emmanuel (40), Esuabom Macaulay (35), and Itoje Safe (54).

In a separate operation in Delta, a Mercedes Benz truck marked AWK 791 ZJ was intercepted along the Abraka-Orogun Road. A search of the truck led to the recovery of 101 bags of skunk, weighing a total of 1,111kg.

Cannabis Seizures in Edo and Oyo States

In Edo State, NDLEA and military operatives stormed the Okpuje community in Owan West LGA on Saturday, March 1, 2025, seizing 1,409.5kg of skunk and destroying over 100 jumbo bags of the substance stored in warehouses. Two suspects, Oikelomen Osere Monday (38) and Glory Iroyo (42), were arrested during the operation.

In Oyo State, Michael Omoloki (46) was arrested with 58.5kg of skunk at the Ibadan end of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. This seizure highlights the agency’s efforts to intercept drug shipments on major highways.

Tramadol and Diazepam Interceptions

In Kwara State, a Beninoise national, Lawali Mohammed, was arrested with 2,980 tablets of tramadol and dozens of diazepam pills at the Eiyenkorin Expressway in Ilorin on Monday, February 24. Similarly, in Osun State, NDLEA operatives intercepted a consignment of 1.05kg of skunk concealed in detergent soap and biscuit cartons along the Ibadan-Gbongan Expressway on Thursday, February 27. Sunday Ogbu (45) was arrested in connection with the seizure.

In Zamfara State, Ayuba Mustapha (30) was arrested at Tsafe with 24,700 pills of tramadol on Sunday, February 23. In Borno State, Mustapha Shettima (50) was arrested with 31kg of skunk, 1,000 pills of tramadol, and N720,000 in monetary exhibits along Bama Road, Maiduguri, on Wednesday, February 26. Adamu Idris (40) was also nabbed along Zaria Road, Kano, the same day with 140 blocks of cannabis weighing 73.5kg.

NDLEA’s Commitment to a Drug-Free Nigeria

The recent operations by the NDLEA demonstrate the agency’s unwavering commitment to eradicating drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria. From intercepting drug traffickers at airports and seaports to raiding cannabis farms and seizing illicit substances on highways, the NDLEA has shown remarkable efficiency and dedication.

Femi Babafemi, the NDLEA’s spokesman, reiterated the agency’s resolve to continue its fight against drug-related crimes. “We remain committed to ensuring a drug-free Nigeria. These operations are a testament to our determination to protect the youth and the general public from the devastating effects of illicit drugs,” he said.

Conclusion: A Call for Collective Action

While the NDLEA’s efforts are commendable, the fight against drug trafficking and abuse requires collective action. Stakeholders, including government agencies, community leaders, and citizens, must work together to address the root causes of drug abuse and create a safer society for all.

The recent arrests and seizures serve as a reminder of the pervasive nature of the drug problem in Nigeria. However, with sustained efforts and collaboration, the country can overcome this challenge and build a brighter, drug-free future for generations to come.