President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for dismantling a major transborder drug trafficking network involving Nigerian and Mexican cartels, describing the operation as a landmark success in the fight against organised crime.
The President’s commendation was conveyed in a State House press release issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, following the announcement of the operation by the Chairman of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd.).
Marwa disclosed on Wednesday that the breakthrough came after weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated operations by NDLEA operatives in collaboration with international partners.
The operation reportedly led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local drug kingpins and several accomplices, alongside the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs estimated to be worth over 360 million dollars.
Reacting to the development, President Tinubu praised the professionalism, bravery and dedication of the NDLEA personnel involved in 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.
Tinubu urged the anti-narcotics agency not to relent in its campaign against drug trafficking and organised criminal networks.
He noted that West Africa has increasingly become a major transit hub for cocaine, synthetic substances and unregulated pharmaceuticals destined for Europe and North America, describing the trend as a growing regional security threat.
According to the President, the drug trade poses grave dangers to young people and national stability, stressing that combating illicit drugs should not be left to security agencies alone.
“I call on all Nigerians to see the fight against illicit drugs not as NDLEA’s responsibility alone. Everyone has a role to play. We must remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities within our communities,” he said.
President Tinubu further declared that the successful operation sends a strong warning to criminal elements that the government would not tolerate organised crime or activities capable of threatening public safety and national security.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in tackling drug trafficking and other transnational crimes across the country.
