The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against illicit drug trafficking, securing 974 convictions between January and March 2026, including 11 high-profile drug kingpins sentenced to a combined 254 years in prison.
In a statement issued on Friday, NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, disclosed that the convictions were the result of intensified nationwide operations targeting drug traffickers and their networks.
According to the agency, of the 974 convicted offenders, 899 are male while 75 are female. A monthly breakdown shows that 265 convictions were secured in January, 316 in February, and 393 in March.
Among the most prominent convictions is that of Italy-based businessman Adegbite Solomon, also known as “Obama,” who was sentenced to a total of 130 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Lagos. The court found him guilty on 15 counts of drug-related offences. Although the sentences are to run concurrently, the court also ordered the revocation of his pharmacy licence and the forfeiture of his assets, including multiple bank accounts and business outlets, to the Federal Government.
Similarly, Ridwan Animashaun was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State. The convict, a repeat offender, had previously served a one-year jail term for a related offence in 2022.
In Ogun State, two traffickers, Rauf Asogba and Seun Olaniyi, were each sentenced to 17 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Abeokuta for trafficking 1,779 kilograms of skunk.
Other notable convictions include Jonathan Nuhu, also known as “Doctor,” and Idris Yusuf, who were each sentenced to 15 years imprisonment in Kano and Yobe states respectively. Yusuf received an additional eight-year sentence in a separate case.
Several other offenders across the country were handed seven-year jail terms for drug trafficking offences.
Reacting to the development, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the outcome as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s war against drug abuse and trafficking.
He said the convictions send a strong warning that Nigeria is no longer a safe haven for drug traffickers.
“Securing 974 convictions in just three months is a testament to the relentless efforts of our officers and the resolve of the Nigerian state to dismantle drug networks,” Marwa said.
He commended the judiciary for expediting the cases, noting that swift justice remains the most effective deterrent against criminal syndicates.
Marwa also praised NDLEA officers for their dedication and courage, assuring them of continued support and improved welfare.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing credible intelligence to aid ongoing operations, stressing that the success recorded belongs to all Nigerians.
