The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) said on Friday it had arrested 230 suspects in a coordinated 30-day operation across Kano State, aimed at curbing drug abuse and related crimes.
The operation, conducted in partnership with the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigeria Correctional Service, targeted notorious drug hotspots including Kofar Ruwa, Tashar Rami, Rijiyar Lemo, Mil Tara, Zage, Dawanau, Filin Idi, Rimi Market, and Kofar Mata.
A.I. Ahmad, outgoing NDLEA commander in Kano, said the raids led to the seizure of cannabis, codeine syrup, EXOL-5, diazepam, rubber solution, “suck and die,” and locally made weapons.
“The operation underscores our commitment to eliminating drug abuse, which fuels crimes such as thuggery, phone snatching, and other social vices,” Ahmad said, adding that residents had witnessed a decline in substance abuse and related criminal activity.
Ahmad credited the operation’s success to collaboration among security agencies and expressed gratitude to Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the police, and the Department of State Services for their support.
He also highlighted the achievements during his four-year tenure, noting that NDLEA had arrested over 3,000 suspects, secured landmark convictions, dismantled trafficking networks, and recovered more than 25 tonnes of illicit drugs. Notable seizures included 5 million tramadol tablets and the eradication of multiple cannabis plantations.
Ahmad emphasized the importance of prevention alongside enforcement, citing the agency’s “Catch Them Young” program, which engages schools and communities to reduce demand for drugs.
On Friday, Ahmad handed over command to CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal. Ahmad will move to a new role as Deputy Director, Directorate of Assets and Financial Investigations.
“The war against drugs is not the task of one person or one unit; it is the responsibility of every sector of society,” Ahmad said. “The torch is passed, the fight continues, and with unity of purpose we will protect our youth and restore our communities.”
