The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has commended the efforts and leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for their tireless commitment to the ongoing war against illicit drugs and other contrabands.
Ribadu gave the commendation when he hosted the leadership of three agencies at his office in Abuja on June 3, 2025.
The event followed a joint operation that led to the destruction of 206 containers and a trailer-load of unwholesome pharmaceuticals and narcotics.
While addressing them, Ribadu acknowledged the conclusion of a major review involving 50 containers under investigation, describing the collaboration as a model for inter-agency synergy in national security.
He praised the efforts of all involved, commending their unwavering commitment to national safety and the protection of public health.
“This is an acknowledgment of the good work you’ve been doing. Nigeria is changing. It won’t be business as usual anymore. We’ll go after the criminals who bring these poisons into our country,” the NSA said.
On his part, the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed that the Service had earlier declared a state of emergency on the trafficking of illicit pharmaceuticals.
Comptroller Adeniyi affirmed that the collaborative effort between agencies, supported by the NSA, enabled the swift identification and destruction of dangerous substances.
“We are stronger together. And we will remain vigilant to ensure these substances never make it into the wrong hands,” he stated.
Similarly, the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, noted that the operation aligns with the National Action Plan (NAP) against drug abuse and illegal pharmaceutical imports.
Adeyeye revealed that more than 1,300 security personnel had been deployed under the NSA’s directive to support NAFDAC, NDLEA, and Customs operations across the country.
“These unregistered and unwholesome products are a danger to our women and children. Our continued collaboration with Customs and NDLEA is saving lives,” she added.
NDLEA representative, Shadrac Haruna, also acknowledged the role of an inter-agency committee initiated by the Customs boss, affirming that it has greatly supported efforts to keep drugs off the streets and dismantle illegal warehouses.
Plaques and letters of commendation were presented to Comptroller Adeniyi, DG Adeyeye, and the NDLEA Chairman represented in gratitude for their efforts in combatting illicit drugs in Nigeria.
The NSA was also presented with a Certificate of Destruction for the seized substances, a mark of recognition highlighting the country’s commitment to eradicating illicit drugs.
