Tinubu Commends NDLEA Over Major Drug Bust, Warns Against Rising Narcotics Threat

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for dismantling a transborder drug trafficking syndicate involving Nigerian and Mexican nationals, describing the operation as a landmark success in the fight against organised crime.

The President’s commendation was contained in a State House press statement following the announcement by NDLEA Chairman, Mohammed Buba Marwa, on Wednesday of the agency’s breakthrough after weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated operations with international partners.

According to the statement, the operation led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local drug kingpins and other collaborators, as well as the seizure of illicit drugs and chemicals valued at over $360 million.

President Tinubu praised the agency’s operatives for what he described as exceptional professionalism and courage in executing the operation.

“This successful operation, which led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local kingpins and other collaborators, as well as the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs valued at over $360 million, demonstrates exceptional professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding society from the devastating effects of narcotics,” the President stated.

He further applauded the bravery and resilience of the NDLEA personnel, urging them not to relent in confronting drug trafficking networks.

“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,” Tinubu said.

The President also expressed concern over the growing role of West Africa as a transit hub for narcotics destined for Europe and North America.

“West Africa has become a great concern in the global war against narcotics as drug barons turn our region into a transit hub for moving cocaine, synthetic drugs and unregulated pharmaceuticals to Europe and North America,” he said.

Tinubu warned that illicit drugs pose serious security and social dangers, particularly to young people who have become victims of the trade.

He called on Nigerians to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities within their communities.

“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,” the President added.