By Our Reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for dismantling a Nigerian-Mexican transborder drug syndicate and uncovering a multi-million-dollar illicit drug production network operating within the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President described the operation as a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s fight against organised crime and narcotics trafficking.
The NDLEA Chairman, Mohammed Buba Marwa, had earlier announced the major breakthrough after weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated operations carried out with international partners.
According to the Presidency, the operation led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local drug kingpins and other collaborators, while chemicals and illicit drugs worth over $360 million were seized.
President Tinubu praised the agency’s operatives for what he described as “exceptional professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment” in protecting Nigerians from the dangers of narcotics.
“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 stated.
Tinubu also raised concerns over the growing role of West Africa in the global narcotics trade, warning that international drug cartels are increasingly using the region as a transit route for cocaine, synthetic drugs and unregulated pharmaceuticals destined for Europe and North America.
He noted that beyond the security implications, the drug trade poses a serious threat to young people across the region, many of whom have fallen victim to addiction and criminal exploitation.
The President called on Nigerians to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities within their communities.
“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,” Tinubu added.