Buba Marwa, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has said that over 14 million Nigerians, including about 400,000 residents of Ondo State, are affected by the illicit drug use.
- +14m Nigerians, with 400,000 Ondo residents affected by illicit drug use — NDLEA
Marwa, a retired Brigadier-General, who said this recently during the destruction of about 83.35 tonnes of assorted illicit drugs at the Akobo lyagia in Akure South Local Government area of Ondo State, warned that the sheer volume of drugs destroyed represents a significant threat that has been neutralised.
Marwa, a retired Brigadier-General, who said this recently during the destruction of about 83.35 tonnes of assorted illicit drugs at the Akobo lyagia in Akure South Local Government area of Ondo State, warned that the sheer volume of drugs destroyed represents a significant threat that has been neutralised.
According to him, the abuse of the substance continues to fuel crimes such as kidnapping, robbery and terrorism.
Marwa, who was represented by the Director of Operations and Investigation of the agency, Ahmed Ninji, said the exercise, though routine, underscored the Agency’s statutory mandate to combat drug trafficking and abuse across the Country.
He explained that the agency operates a dual strategy of enforcement and prevention, combining aggressive arrests, investigations and prosecutions with public enlightenment, rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for drug users.
The NDLEA boss also highlighted the Alternative Development Project (ADP), launched in Ondo State in January 2026, as a key initiative aimed at redirecting illicit drug traders and cultivators towards legitimate means of livelihood.
He further acknowledged the dangers faced by NDLEA operatives in the line of duty and commended their resilience and commitment.
The Agency also expressed appreciation to the Ondo State Government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and other Security Agencies, including community leaders for their continued support.
Also, the State Commander of NDLEA, Nanzing Sallah, disclosed that the destroyed drugs were seized between 2018 and 2024, and were cleared for destruction following rulings by the Federal High Court.
Sallah said the Command recorded 337 convictions within the period, while 60 vehicles and 68 motorcycles were forfeited to the Federal Government. He added that 147 drug-related cases are currently pending before the courts.
He attributed the achievements to the dedication and professionalism of NDLEA personnel, noting that officers “worked tirelessly to ensure a safer society.”
The commander also commended the contributions of stakeholders, including the judiciary, security agencies, traditional and religious institutions, as well as the Akobo-Iyegia community for providing the venue for the exercise.
Both NDLEA leaders called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders, stressing that a collective approach remains essential to tackling drug abuse and related crimes and ensuring a safer society.
While the State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on illicit drugs as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) carried out the public destruction of the seized illicit drugs.
Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami said his administration remains resolute in tackling drug-related crimes, stressing that issues of security and the protection of lives and property, remain a top priority.
He noted that the event was not merely symbolic but a clear demonstration of the government’s determination to uphold the law and discourage illegal activities.
“This exercise is not just about the destruction of seized substances, but a strong statement that the government will not condone the use, trafficking or distribution of illicit drugs,” the governor said.
He warned that drug abuse continues to have devastating consequences, particularly for young people, as it derails their future, weakens families, fuels criminal activity and threatens societal peace.
The governor, however, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the NDLEA and other security agencies through sustained investment in public awareness, prevention, rehabilitation and youth empowerment initiatives, in line with the administration’s development agenda.
