President Bola Tinubu has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for dismantling a major Nigerian-Mexican drug syndicate and uncovering a sophisticated multi-million-dollar illegal drug production network operating in the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the agency’s operatives for what he described as a landmark success in the fight against organised crime and drug trafficking.
The NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd.), had on Wednesday announced the breakthrough following weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated operations carried out in collaboration with international partners.
According to the Presidency, the operation led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local drug kingpins, and other collaborators, alongside the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs valued at more than $360 million.
President Tinubu said the operation demonstrated “exceptional professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment” by NDLEA personnel in protecting society from the dangers posed by narcotics.
“I commend the bravery, resilience, and dedication displayed by operatives of the NDLEA throughout this mission. I urge them not to be complacent in confronting the menace of drug trafficking,” the President stated.
Tinubu also expressed concern over the growing role of West Africa in global narcotics trafficking, warning that international drug cartels are increasingly using the region as a transit hub for cocaine, synthetic drugs, and unregulated pharmaceuticals destined for Europe and North America.
He noted that beyond being a security challenge, illicit drugs also threaten the future of young people, many of whom have become victims of substance abuse and trafficking networks.
The President called on Nigerians to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities capable of aiding criminal organisations.
“This landmark success is a strong message that our security agencies will not tolerate organised crime and criminality anywhere in the country, and that those who threaten public safety and national security will face the wrath of the law,” Tinubu added.