Why FG is Prioritising War Against Illicit Drugs – NSA Ribadu
…207 Containers of Counterfeit Substances Destroyed in Joint Operation
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling the menace of illicit drugs, describing it as a critical component of Nigeria’s national security strategy.
Ribadu made the assertion during an inter-agency coordination meeting at his office in Abuja, where he noted that drug abuse—particularly among the youth—is intricately linked to insecurity across the country.
“Most violent crimes and terrorist activities are fueled by narcotics abuse. The war on drugs is not just about law enforcement—it is a long-term public health intervention with implications for national stability,” Ribadu stated.
He warned that it would no longer be business as usual for those dealing in illicit and counterfeit substances, as the government is determined to dismantle drug networks and safeguard public health.
“There are patriotic Nigerians working tirelessly to make our society better. The achievements recorded by this committee are proof of what we can accomplish through inter-agency collaboration,” he added.
The NSA commended the synergy among agencies involved in the joint operation, which has so far led to the interception and destruction of 207 containers of fake and dangerous drugs.
The ongoing crackdown is being coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
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Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed that the destroyed consignments—intercepted through joint surveillance—contained highly dangerous and unregulated pharmaceuticals.
She attributed the success of the operation to the prompt intervention of the NSA, which she said helped close enforcement gaps and fast-tracked coordinated responses.
“If not for the NSA’s swift action, these counterfeit drugs might have made their way into markets—potentially claiming the lives of many women and youths,” Prof. Adeyeye warned.
Also speaking, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, described the operation as unprecedented in scale and impact. He hailed the multi-agency approach as a model for future national enforcement drives.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), lauded Ribadu’s leadership and budgetary backing, which he said empowered security agencies to make major seizures and disrupt drug syndicates.
At the event, the NDLEA presented a certificate of destruction to the NSA in recognition of his role in leading the nationwide initiative. In return, Ribadu presented plaques of appreciation to the heads of participating agencies.
“These plaques are symbols of gratitude from the Presidency. They also serve as a reminder that the battle against drugs is a battle for our country’s future,” he said.
According to officials, the destruction of the 207 containers marks a significant milestone in the government’s broader efforts to sanitise Nigeria’s pharmaceutical supply chain. They also revealed that further operations are being mapped out and will be intensified in the coming months.
By PRNigeria
