Nigeria's National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has been extremely active in recent weeks, carrying out numerous operations across the country targeting drug trafficking and abuse. These efforts have resulted in significant seizures of illicit substances and the arrest of numerous individuals involved in the drug trade. The NDLEA's actions underscore its commitment to combating drug-related crimes and protecting the well-being of Nigerian citizens.

One notable case involves Levi Ubodoeze, an automobile spare parts dealer based in Lagos. Ubodoeze was apprehended for allegedly attempting to export two kilograms of cocaine concealed within vehicle propellers destined for Angola. NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi stated that Ubodoeze's arrest followed a three-week manhunt initiated after the cocaine consignment was intercepted at a logistics company in the Aspanda Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, Lagos, on February 21, 2025. Subsequent collaboration with Angolan authorities led to the arrest of the intended recipient, which in turn, helped identify Ubodoeze as the sender.

On March 6th, NDLEA operatives located Ubodoeze at his residence in the Ago Palace Way area of Isolo, Lagos. He was apprehended while attempting to flee in a KIA Sport Utility Vehicle. A search of the vehicle uncovered 75.5 kilograms of phenacetin, a substance commonly used as a cutting agent for cocaine. The phenacetin was packaged and branded as semolina to mask its true nature. Additionally, a digital scale used for weighing illicit drugs was recovered from Ubodoeze's residence.

According to reports, Ubodoeze confessed to dealing in cocaine while operating his spare parts business at Ladipo Market in Mushin, Lagos. He claimed that his Angolan contact alerted him upon being arrested, prompting his attempt to escape. This case highlights the NDLEA's effectiveness in tracking down and apprehending individuals involved in international drug trafficking networks.

In another significant operation, NDLEA operatives at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, intercepted a shipment of cannabis-laced candies imported from the United Kingdom. The candies were intended for sale at a Kiddie’s Mart in Surulere, Lagos. This discovery raises serious concerns about the safety of children's snacks and the potential for them to be exposed to harmful substances.

The consolidated cargo shipment arrived via Allied Airways on February 27th. Forensic analysis confirmed the presence of a potent cannabis strain in the candies. Adedamola Taylor, the intended recipient, was arrested on March 4th, following the earlier arrest of a freight agent. Taylor stated that the consignment was sent by his UK-based brother, Babatunde Alabi, for delivery to Musurat Lawal, who runs the Surulere store. A follow-up operation at the shop resulted in Lawal's arrest.

These incidents demonstrate the NDLEA's vigilance in monitoring imports and preventing the distribution of dangerous substances, especially those that could target vulnerable populations like children.

The NDLEA has also been active in other parts of Lagos and across Nigeria, making several other notable arrests and seizures:

Furthermore, on March 5th, NDLEA operatives raided Amahor Community Forest in Igueben, Edo State, arresting 55-year-old Etim Esien Stephen. The officers destroyed 9,514.625 kilograms of skunk cultivated on 3.8 hectares of farmland.

In addition to these enforcement actions, the NDLEA has continued its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, conducting sensitisation efforts in schools, religious centers, and workplaces nationwide. Recent engagements included lectures at Model High School, Amaechi, Enugu; Bengy Secondary School, Agege, Lagos; Sunshine Secondary School, Nku Udo Eno, Akwa Ibom; and Government Day Secondary School, Dong, Adamawa State.

NDLEA chairperson and chief executive officer Mohamed Marwa commended officers in Lagos, Kano, Abia, Benue, Osun, and Edo for their recent successes, emphasizing the agency's commitment to reducing drug supply and demand in Nigeria.

These recent operations and initiatives highlight the NDLEA's ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria. The agency's successes in seizing illicit substances, arresting offenders, and raising awareness about the dangers of drug use demonstrate its crucial role in protecting public health and safety.