The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed 329,865.585 kilogrammes of assorted illicit drugs valued at an estimated N301.058 billion in Lagos.
The drugs, which included cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, cannabis, Canadian Loud, skunk, ephedrine, tramadol, codeine syrup, other opioids and khat leaves, were destroyed on Monday following orders from the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division.
NDLEA spokesman, Femi Babafemi, said the exercise followed the conclusion of uncontested cases involving seized drugs, as well as abandoned seizures.
According to the agency, 246,864.535kg of the drugs were seized by its Lagos Strategic Command between April 2025 and May 2026. Another 83,001.05kg came from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Tin Can and Apapa Strategic Commands, the Marine Command and a Special Operations Unit operating in Lagos.
Speaking during the destruction exercise, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), described the move as a demonstration of Nigeria’s determination to protect its citizens and deprive criminal networks of resources.
Marwa said illicit drugs pose serious threats to young people, families and communities, while also contributing to crime, rising healthcare costs and social instability.
He further linked drug trafficking to wider security challenges, noting that proceeds from the illegal trade can finance organised crime, terrorism and violent extremism.
The NDLEA chairman commended President Bola Tinubu, the judiciary, Lagos State Government, security agencies, international partners and other stakeholders for their support in the fight against drug trafficking.
He also warned drug barons, traffickers, financiers and dealers that the agency would continue to pursue them regardless of how sophisticated their networks might be.
Marwa urged parents, schools, religious and traditional leaders and the media to join the NDLEA in tackling drug abuse and trafficking, stressing that the fight could not be won by the agency alone.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the destruction of nearly 300 tonnes of narcotics and psychotropic substances as a major reminder of the scale of the drug problem.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking across Lagos.
