The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Apapa Strategic Command, has rallied regulatory bodies, sister security agencies, terminal operators, shippers, and other stakeholders to strengthen cooperation and action against the importation and trafficking of illicit drugs through Nigeria’s seaports and other entry points.

This appeal follows the agency’s announcement that Nigeria recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India to curb the manufacture of codeine-based syrups destined for Nigeria.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the command’s office to unveil activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Apapa Strategic Commander of the NDLEA, Buba Wakawa, stressed the urgency of coordinated efforts.

The International Day is observed yearly on June 26.

Citing the 2018 United Nations Drug Survey, which estimated that 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 had used drugs in the preceding years, Wakawa underlined the importance of information and intelligence sharing to prevent the inflow of illicit substances into the country.

According to him, this year’s campaign, themed “Evidence Is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Cycle,” aims to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse while encouraging locally tailored initiatives by member countries to sensitise their communities and work towards a drug-free society.

“The goal of this engagement is to bring together a wide cross-section of society including schools and students, regulatory bodies, sister security agencies, terminal operators, and other stakeholders.”