Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have successfully intercepted a major consignment of opioids, totaling 175,000 bottles, which were illicitly imported from India. The interception, which is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to curb the influx of illegal drugs into Nigeria, underscores the seriousness of the opioid crisis facing the nation.
The consignment was seized at the Tin Can Island Port in Lagos, following intelligence reports and diligent surveillance by NDLEA officers. The operation was carried out in collaboration with other security agencies and port authorities, ensuring a coordinated approach to the crackdown on drug trafficking.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), commended the operatives for their vigilance and commitment to their duties. He emphasized that the agency remains resolute in its mission to combat drug trafficking and abuse in the country. “This seizure is a significant blow to the operations of drug traffickers, who are bent on flooding our country with harmful substances,” Marwa stated.
The intercepted consignment contained a substantial amount of tramadol, an opioid pain medication that has been widely abused in Nigeria. Tramadol abuse has been linked to various health issues, including addiction, mental health disorders, and even death. The NDLEA has been particularly vigilant in monitoring and intercepting shipments of this drug due to its high abuse potential.
Marwa highlighted the need for international cooperation in tackling the global drug trade, calling on countries, particularly those where these substances are manufactured, to strengthen their regulatory frameworks and enhance cooperation with Nigerian authorities.
The NDLEA continues to intensify its operations across all entry points into Nigeria, including airports, seaports, and land borders. Recent efforts have led to several high-profile seizures and arrests, disrupting the activities of drug trafficking syndicates operating within and outside the country.
In addition to enforcement, the NDLEA is also focusing on public awareness and education to reduce the demand for illicit drugs. The agency regularly conducts sensitization programs in schools, communities, and workplaces to educate people about the dangers of drug abuse and the legal consequences of drug trafficking.
The successful interception of the opioid consignment reaffirms the NDLEA’s commitment to safeguarding public health and safety. As the agency continues to adapt and refine its strategies, it calls for greater public support and cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
