President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and its staff for the successful dismantling of a Nigerian-Mexican drug syndicate and a sophisticated multi-million-dollar illegal drug production network.
Chairman of the agency, Brig Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), announced the major drug bust on Wednesday following weeks of intelligence gathering and a coordinated operation by NDLEA operatives in collaboration with international partners.
President Tinubu said: “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.
“I commend the bravery, resilience, and dedication displayed by NDLEA operatives throughout this mission. I urge them not to be complacent in confronting the menace of drug trafficking.
“West Africa has become a major 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.
“Drugs not only pose a critical security threat to our region, but they also pose a grave danger to the future of our youth, many of whom have become victims of this trade.
“I call on all Nigerians to see the fight against illicit drugs as not the NDLEA’s alone. Everyone has a role to play. We must remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities in our communities to assist security agencies in dismantling criminal networks.
“This landmark success sends a strong message that our security agencies will not tolerate organised crime anywhere in the country, and that those who threaten public safety and national security will face the full wrath of the law.”
