RismadarVoice Reporters
May 21, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for what he described as a landmark breakthrough in dismantling a Nigerian-Mexican drug trafficking syndicate and a multi-million-dollar illicit drug production network operating within the country.
The operation, which led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local kingpins and their collaborators, also resulted in the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs valued at over $360 million.
Chairman of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), announced the breakthrough on Wednesday, noting that the operation followed weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated action involving both local and international partners.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the operation as a demonstration of professionalism, courage and commitment by NDLEA operatives in protecting society from the dangers of narcotics.
“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 said.
Tinubu urged the agency not to relent in its efforts, stressing that drug trafficking remains a major threat to national security and public health.
He warned that West Africa has increasingly become a transit hub for global drug cartels moving cocaine, synthetic drugs and unregulated pharmaceuticals to Europe and North America.
According to him, the illicit drug trade poses a serious security risk and undermines the future of young people, many of whom have become victims of drug abuse and trafficking networks.
The President called on Nigerians to support the fight against drug trafficking by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.
“The fight against illicit drugs is not the NDLEA’s alone. Everyone has a role to play,” Tinubu said.
He reaffirmed that the Federal Government would continue to support security agencies in dismantling organised criminal networks and ensuring that perpetrators face the full weight of the law.
