HURIWA highlighted NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to dismantling drug cartels and prosecuting offenders, stressing that recent achievements stand as beacon of hope in the ongoing battle against illicit drugs in Nigeria.
The civil rights group in a statement by its national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, commended these accomplishments, recognising them as the most significant in the history of NDLEA and a testament to effective leadership and strategic partnerships.
“Under the visionary leadership of Brig Gen Marwa, NDLEA has executed a relentless campaign against drug trafficking networks, resulting in unprecedented success.
“The agency’s recent report reveals staggering statistics, including the arrest of 50,901 drug offenders, among them 46 barons, and the conviction of 9,034 individuals involved in illicit drug activities.
“These numbers underscore the agency’s determination to bring perpetrators to justice and send a clear message to drug cartels that their criminal activities will not be tolerated,” HURIWA applauded.
The group further noted that the seizure of over 7,561 tonnes of illicit substances, destruction of 304,436kg kilogrammes and 40,042 litres of illicit substances seized from parts of Lagos and Ogun states as reported by the Agency, represent a significant blow to the operations of drug syndicates, disrupting their nefarious activities and safeguarding communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse.
However, the Association noted that NDLEA’s efforts extend beyond mere enforcement, as demonstrated by their proactive approach to combating drug cultivation through initiatives such as the search-and-destroy campaign against cannabis plantations, destroying over 1,057 hectares of illicit farms.
HURIWA, also, acknowledged the pivotal role played by strategic partnerships in enhancing NDLEA’s operational capabilities, including the generous support extended by the British government, exemplified by the commissioning of a state-of-the-art operational facility for the Agency.
According to HURIWA, it underscores the importance of international cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking, stressing that the collaborative efforts between Nigeria and the UK exemplify what can be achieved through shared determination and mutual trust.
“Moreover, NDLEA’s collaboration with other international agencies, such as the American Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA), United Kingdom NCA, Border Force, and various others, reflects a global commitment to addressing the transnational nature of drug trafficking.
“These partnerships have facilitated intelligence-sharing, joint operations, and capacity-building initiatives, further strengthening NDLEA’s position in the global fight against illicit drugs,” it added.
HURIWA also stated that Marwa’s leadership serves as a beacon of excellence and a source of pride for President Tinubu’s administration.
The association stated that the agency’s achievements under Marwa reflect a concerted effort toward realising the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.
