The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported the seizure of 1,257.213 kilograms (approximately 1.26 tons) of assorted illicit drugs in Enugu State over the past year.
This was disclosed on Thursday by Mr. Abel Wadahi, the NDLEA Commander in Enugu, during the commemoration of the 2025 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The event, themed “The Evidence Is Clear, Invest In Prevention: Break the Cycle #StopOrganisedCrime,” was held in partnership with the Enugu State Government.
The day, marked globally every June 26, raises awareness of the devastating impacts of drug abuse and illegal drug trade.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the NDLEA’s seizures in Enugu within the 12-month period included:
977.711kg of Cannabis Sativa
6.462kg of Methamphetamine
70.182kg of Tramadol
0.734kg of Cocaine
Additional assorted substances
Mr. Wadahi stated, “These figures reflect more than statistics; they signify a disruption of drug chains and restoration of hope for affected Nigerian families.”
A total of 446 individuals were arrested for drug-related offenses—399 males and 47 females. Of these, 62 persons, including two women, have been convicted.
Meanwhile, 78 cases (66 males and 12 females) remain ongoing in court.
Wadahi also revealed that 120 cases had been filed at the Federal High Court in Enugu, currently at various trial stages.
Six vehicles and two motorcycles linked to drug operations were seized and placed under interim forfeiture.
Efforts to rehabilitate drug users have also seen progress.
According to him, “452 individuals were successfully counselled, treated and rehabilitated at the command’s facility.”
In terms of preventive outreach, the NDLEA conducted 152 sensitisation programmes targeting youth and the general public across schools, parks, places of worship, workplaces, and communities.
“We reached 81,415 people—40,803 males and 40,612 females,” Wadahi said.
He also highlighted the agency’s Drug Integrity Test initiative, which promotes a sustained anti-drug culture throughout the country.
Delivering the keynote address, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Commissioner Emeka Ajogwu, emphasized that addressing poverty and trauma is key to preventing substance abuse.
He also underscored the importance of youth empowerment and reducing stigma toward drug users.
Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Samuel Asadu, represented by Vincent Ugwuanyi, pointed out the broader impact of narcotics, saying they “fuel crime, corruption and terrorism worldwide.”
He called for united efforts to dismantle drug networks and foster a drug-free society.
During a lecture, Dr. Vincent Egbuogu of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, described drug abuse as both “destructive and profit-driven,” urging simultaneous action to cut both the supply and demand of narcotics.
Also speaking, Mrs. Onyinye Obeagu, wife of the Isi-Uzo Council Chairman, noted that their partnership with NDLEA had significantly strengthened local drug abuse prevention efforts.
The event drew wide participation from civil society organizations, law enforcement agencies, academic institutions, NYSC members, students, and other stakeholders in the state.
