President Bola Tinubu has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its milestone achievement in dismantling a Nigerian-Mexican methamphetamine production syndicate worth ₦480 billion ($362 million) operating in the country.
ThelensNG reports that the NDLEA on Wednesday announced the major drug bust involving an industrial-scale clandestine laboratory — the largest ever uncovered in Nigeria — hidden in a remote forest in the Ijebu area of Ogun State.
Reacting to the success on Thursday, President Tinubu stated that the operation is a testament to the commitment and dedication of the anti-narcotics agency in combating substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
“This successful operation, which led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local kingpins and other collaborators, as well as the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs valued at over $360 million, demonstrates exceptional professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding society from the devastating effects of narcotics,” he said.
“I commend the bravery, resilience, and dedication displayed by operatives of the NDLEA throughout this mission. I urge them not to be complacent in confronting the menace of drug trafficking.”
The President noted that West Africa has become a major concern in the global war against narcotics, as drug barons increasingly turn the region into a transit hub for moving cocaine, synthetic drugs, and unregulated pharmaceuticals to Europe and North America.
Tinubu stressed that drugs not only pose a critical security threat to the region, but also endanger the future of its youths, some of whom, he said, have become victims of the trade.
He also called on all Nigerians to recognise that the fight against illicit drugs is not the responsibility of the NDLEA alone, noting that everyone has a role to play.
The President urged citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities within their communities to assist security agencies in combating criminal networks.
“This landmark success is a strong message that our security agencies will not tolerate organised crime and criminality anywhere in the country, and that those who threaten public safety and national security will face the wrath of the law,” he added.
