President Bola Tinubu has praised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following the dismantling of a Nigerian-Mexican drug cartel and the disruption of a multi-million-dollar trafficking network.
The President described the operation as a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against organised crime, drug trafficking and cross-border criminal activities.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu applauded the agency for the successful operation carried out in collaboration with international security partners.
The NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd.), had earlier announced that the agency arrested foreign suspects, local drug kingpins and several accomplices after weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated raids.
According to the agency, illicit drugs and chemicals valued at over $360 million were recovered during the operation.
Reacting to the development, Tinubu commended the professionalism, courage and commitment displayed by NDLEA operatives throughout the mission.
“I commend the bravery, resilience and dedication shown by NDLEA officers during this operation. However, they must remain steadfast and not relent in the fight against drug trafficking,” the President stated.
He said the success of the operation sends a clear warning to drug cartels and criminal groups that Nigeria will not tolerate illegal drug activities within its borders.
Tinubu also expressed concern over the growing use of West Africa as a transit route for cocaine, synthetic drugs and unregulated pharmaceutical products heading to Europe and North America.
According to him, the trend poses a major threat to both national and regional security, as drug trafficking networks often fuel corruption, violence and organised crime across borders.
The President further warned that illicit drugs are destroying the future of many young people, noting that several youths have become victims of addiction and criminal exploitation.
He stressed that the war against narcotics should not be viewed solely as the responsibility of the NDLEA, urging Nigerians to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
Tinubu added that timely information from citizens could help security agencies uncover criminal networks and illegal trafficking operations across the country.
The President assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to strengthen support for the NDLEA and other security agencies to combat drug trafficking, protect communities and enhance national security.
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