The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has conducted the largest single public destruction of seized narcotics in its history, incinerating approximately 1.6 million kilograms of assorted illicit substances. The destruction took place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at an isolated site in Ipara, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State.
According to a statement released by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media & Advocacy on Saturday, the event was witnessed by a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, traditional rulers, clergy, security agencies, international partners, NGOs, and community leaders.
Some of the drugs destroyed include 123 kilograms of cocaine, 46.8 kilograms of heroin, 1.4 million kilograms of cannabis, 148,000 kilograms of codeine syrup, 3,244.26 kilograms of tramadol, 1,544 kilograms of skuchies, and 111 kilograms of methamphetamine, among others.
NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), represented by Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, emphasized that the destruction underscores the agency’s unwavering commitment to eradicating drug trafficking in Nigeria.
“This massive seizure serves as a stark reminder of the public health threat these substances pose until they are completely and irreversibly destroyed,” Marwa stated. “Our mandate is clear: to reduce these narcotics to rubble, and we carry out this duty with utmost diligence.”
Marwa warned those still involved in the drug trade, affirming that there would be no safe haven for traffickers under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He cited the conviction of 10,572 drug offenders over the past four years as evidence of NDLEA’s relentless pursuit of justice.
He also expressed appreciation to Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, and Seyi Makinde of Oyo for their continued support of NDLEA operations within their respective states.
Speaking on the rationale behind the public destruction, Dr. Abdul highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability.
“This exercise is not merely symbolic—it is forensic and evidence-based. The seized drugs are tested in laboratories to confirm their authenticity and are destroyed only after legal processes have been concluded,” he explained.
The operation covered seizures from multiple NDLEA commands including the Lagos Strategic Command, Ogun State Command, Oyo State Command, MMIA Strategic Command, Lagos Seaports, Idiroko Border Command, and Seme Border Command, representing NDLEA’s Zone 9 and Zone 11.
The NDLEA also acknowledged the contributions of both local and international partners. These include the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA), the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Bureau (INL) of the US, United Kingdom Border Force, the National Crime Agency (UK), the French Police, the German Police, as well as financial institutions like First Bank of Nigeria, Fidelity Bank, and Sterling Bank. Other supporters include the Nigerian Military, Customs, Police, Civil Defence, Immigration, FRSC, and NAFDAC, whose collaborative efforts have been vital in advancing effective drug control across the country.
In his remarks, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Special Adviser on Security, AIG Olusola Subair (Rtd), lauded NDLEA’s professionalism and dedication.
“Their work saves lives, strengthens communities, and upholds the rule of law. Ogun State remains a committed partner in this crucial fight,” he said.
Governor Abiodun also stressed the need for a holistic approach to combating drug abuse, calling for investment in prevention, education, counseling, youth empowerment, and the strengthening of rehabilitation and support systems for those battling addiction.