Officials at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency's Kano command have torched over 12 tonnes of illegal drugs. The public destruction exercise took place as part of ongoing efforts to keep narcotics off Nigerian streets.
The NDLEA incinerated 12,233.946 kilograms of seized substances in total. About 11.89 tonnes came from operations across Kano State, while airport officials contributed another 343.519 kilograms intercepted at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport.
Commander CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal oversaw the burning operation. He noted the destroyed drugs included cannabis, tramadol, codeine, heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine among other banned items.
The agency's intelligence teams had uncovered these narcotics through targeted raids and special operations. One campaign, Operation Sharar Mafaka, proved particularly effective in disrupting trafficking networks.
Investigators discovered sophisticated hideouts used by drug dealers in the Rimin Kebe area. Some traffickers had dug tunnels and caves to stash their products away from law enforcement.
Since January 2026, Lawal's command has arrested 904 suspects involved in the drug trade. Men made up the vast majority—869 males compared to just 35 females among those detained.
Authorities have seized more than 2.5 tonnes of illicit substances during this period. The work has also yielded over 54 convictions in court.
Some convicted traffickers received prison sentences stretching up to 15 years. Lawal emphasized that jail time sends a strong message to would-be dealers.
Yet the commander stressed enforcement alone won't solve Nigeria's drug crisis. He called for support from religious leaders, school administrators, traditional rulers, employers and families nationwide.
Lawal commended NDLEA Chairman Brigadier-General Mohamed Buba Marwa for his strong leadership. According to him, the retired officer's vision has transformed how the agency tackles the narcotics menace.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf's administration also earned praise for its collaboration. Lawal noted that an erosion project in Rimin Kebe had eliminated criminal hideouts used by traffickers.
Federal High Court judges received acknowledgment for delivering swift judgments in drug cases. Lawal also paid tribute to outgoing Director Ahmad Sulaiman Ningi for years of dedicated service.
