The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) took decisive action on Monday in Kano State, destroying a substantial 15.7 tonnes of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances that had been confiscated by the state Command and Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) Special Area Command.
These seizures occurred over a period spanning from October 2020 to October 2023.
Buba Marwa, the NDLEA Chairman, emphasized the significance of this operation, highlighting that the drugs were eliminated to prevent their reentry into society.
Representing Mr. Marwa, Samuel Bashir-Gadzama, the NDLEA Director-General of Investigation, spoke during the public burning of the illicit drugs.
Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, the state NDLEA Commander, provided details on the substances destroyed, comprising 15,193.365 kg of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.
This included 9,824.098 kg of Cannabis Sativa, 1.8665 kg of Cocaine, 4,694.298 kg of Psychotropic Substance, 9 grams of Methamphetamine, 10 kg of Barbiturate, and 663 kg of expired drugs.
Idris-Ahmad reported that 528.511 kg of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances were seized from the Aminu Kano International Airport.
This assortment included 169 kg of Psychotropic Substance, 6 kg of Cannabis Sativa, 4.3 kg of Cocaine, 5.211 kg of Methamphetamine, and 344 kg of Khat.
The commander emphasized the detrimental impact of these substances on society, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the Kano State Government, judges, other security agencies, and Non-Governmental Organizations in combating the drug menace.
He particularly appreciated the Emirate Councils for their effective intervention, insisting on drug tests before appointments.
Highlighting the commitment of the NDLEA, Idris-Ahmad announced the approval of Divisional Narcotic Offices in every local government area in Nigeria to intensify the fight against drug trade and abuse.
He issued a stern warning to those involved in the trade, emphasizing that there is no hiding place for them in Kano state.
Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf expressed gratitude to the NDLEA and other security agencies for their efforts against the drug menace.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Shehu Wada-Sagagi, the governor acknowledged that a significant portion of illegal drug users in the state were teenagers.
He reassured the public of the government’s commitment to addressing the situation and enhancing the overall well-being of the state.
