The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has publicly destroyed 12,233.946 kilograms — approximately 12.234 tonnes — of illicit drugs seized in Kano State and at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, marking a major step in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against drug trafficking. The destruction, carried out by the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command on Monday, targeted cannabis, heroin, cocaine, tramadol, codeine, methamphetamine, and other narcotic and psychotropic substances. These drugs were confiscated through intelligence-led operations and forfeited by courts, reflecting sustained enforcement efforts across the state.
The exercise was led by Commander CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal of the Kano Strategic Command as part of the agency’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign. According to a statement signed by Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics and Media and Advocacy Officer, the seized consignments came from targeted raids and operations including “Sharar Mafaka” and “Ramadan Mubarak.” Investigations revealed that traffickers used sophisticated concealment methods, such as tunnels and caves in the Rimin Kebe area, highlighting the need for coordinated and persistent action to dismantle their networks.
Since January 2026, the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command has arrested 904 suspects — 869 men and 35 women — and seized over 2.5 tonnes of illicit substances. The agency has also secured more than 54 convictions, with some offenders receiving prison sentences of up to 15 years. These figures underscore the increasing effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and court enforcement in curbing drug-related crimes in the region.
Representing the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Director of Operations and General Investigations DCGN Ahmed Suleiman Ningi described the public destruction as “justice made visible.” He emphasized that the exercise sends a strong warning to drug trafficking syndicates and reaffirms the agency’s commitment to protecting communities. NDLEA’s strategy includes supply-chain monitoring, alternative development programmes for farmers, and drug integrity testing on campuses to prevent abuse and curb demand.
The Kano State government also expressed its continued support for the anti-drug campaign, stating that the public destruction demonstrates the state’s resolve to combat criminal networks. Authorities are combining enforcement with rehabilitation and youth reintegration programmes to address the root causes of drug abuse. This comprehensive approach aims to reduce both supply and demand while fostering long-term community safety.
As NDLEA continues its operations across Nigeria, the destruction in Kano serves as a powerful reminder of the agency’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse and ensuring public safety. The ongoing efforts signal a stronger, more coordinated response to narcotics trafficking, with implications for national security and public health.
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