Nigeria's anti-drug agency has made significant seizures in Bauchi State over the past seven months. Hassan Yaqub, the state commander for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, disclosed the figures at an event marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Between November 2025 and June 2026, NDLEA operatives seized 2,248.9 kilogrammes of assorted narcotics across the state. Cannabis sativa, methamphetamine, rohypnol, crack cocaine, tramadol, and codeine syrup were among the drugs recovered.
Officers arrested 270 suspects during raids and operations. They also destroyed a marijuana plantation discovered at a farm in Bogoro Local Government Area.
In the courtroom, the agency has filed 105 cases against traffickers and drug users. Yaqub noted that 79 convictions have been secured so far, with 74 cases still pending and 12 suspects held in custody.
Beyond enforcement, NDLEA has focused on rehabilitation and recovery. The agency treated and discharged 67 people struggling with drug addiction, while 12 others continue receiving care at its rehabilitation centre.
"Our care and treatment unit is working hard to rebuild lives and help people rejoin their communities," Yaqub told reporters. He emphasised the importance of addressing the root causes of addiction, not just the supply side.
Public awareness has also been a priority for the agency in Bauchi. Over 300 community outreach programmes reached approximately 1.5 million residents about the dangers of drug abuse.
NDLEA conducted these sensitisation campaigns in places of worship, motor parks, and educational institutions. Schools and universities have become key targets for prevention messaging.
Yaqub said the agency is partnering with the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria and the NYSC Drug Free Club on the fight. He called on all tertiary institutions and secondary schools to establish their own drug-free clubs.
He commended the Bauchi State Government, religious leaders, and community organisations for supporting the war on drugs. Yaqub reaffirmed NDLEA's determination to stamp out drug trafficking and abuse in the state.