Kano, Nigeria – In one of the most dramatic anti-drug operations witnessed in recent times, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has publicly destroyed a staggering 12.2 tonnes of illicit drugs seized across Kano State and at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The massive destruction exercise sent a clear message to drug traffickers that authorities are tightening the noose on the illegal drug trade. The destroyed narcotics included cannabis, heroin, cocaine, tramadol, codeine, methamphetamine, and several other dangerous psychotropic substances confiscated during intelligence-driven operations and later forfeited by the courts.
According to a statement issued by the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command’s Media and Advocacy Officer, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, the exercise was led by the Command’s Commander, CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal, under the agency’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign.
Investigators also uncovered sophisticated hiding places used by traffickers, including secret tunnels and caves in the Rimin Kebe area, highlighting the extreme measures criminal networks employ to evade law enforcement. The discoveries were made during coordinated operations such as Operation Sharar Mafaka and Operation Ramadan Mubarak.
The agency revealed that since January 2026, its Kano Strategic Command has arrested 904 suspects, comprising 869 men and 35 women. Within the same period, officers seized more than 2.5 tonnes of illicit substances and secured over 54 convictions, with some offenders receiving prison sentences of up to 15 years.
Representing the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, the Director of Operations and General Investigations, DCGN Ahmed Suleiman Ningi, described the public destruction as “justice made visible.” He emphasized that the exercise serves as a strong warning to drug trafficking syndicates while reaffirming the agency’s commitment to protecting communities through aggressive enforcement, supply-chain monitoring, alternative livelihood programmes for farmers, and drug integrity testing in educational institutions.
The Kano State Government also reiterated its commitment to supporting the fight against drug abuse and trafficking, stressing that the public destruction reflects a united resolve to dismantle criminal networks. The government added that enforcement efforts will continue alongside rehabilitation initiatives and youth reintegration programmes aimed at reducing substance abuse and promoting safer communities.
The operation marks another significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against illegal drugs, as authorities intensify efforts to curb trafficking and safeguard lives across the country.
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