Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has intensified its crackdown on illicit drugs in the southeastern state of Anambra, arresting 559 suspects, securing 128 convictions, and seizing approximately 1.8 tonnes of illegal substances over the past 11 months.
The Anambra State Commander of the NDLEA, Charles Onubogu, disclosed the figures on Wednesday during a press briefing in Awka ahead of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed globally on June 26.
According to Onubogu, the arrests involved 475 men and 84 women linked to various drug-related offences, while the seizures included cocaine, methamphetamine, cannabis and other prohibited substances.
“Since I assumed office about 11 months ago, we have recovered approximately 1.8 tonnes of assorted illicit drugs, arrested 559 suspects and secured 128 convictions,” he said.
The commander described the results as a significant breakthrough in the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse in the state.
Beyond law enforcement operations, the NDLEA said it has strengthened rehabilitation and treatment programmes for people struggling with substance abuse.
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Onubogu revealed that 102 individuals underwent treatment and rehabilitation during the period under review, while 94 others received counselling and intervention services.
He noted that many recovering drug users were enrolled in vocational training programmes, including tailoring and soap-making, to support their reintegration into society.
Emphasising the agency’s dual strategy of supply and demand reduction, Onubogu said the NDLEA remains committed to disrupting drug trafficking networks through arrests, investigations and prosecutions, while also addressing the root causes of drug abuse through public awareness campaigns, counselling and rehabilitation.
“We are mainly after drug dealers,” he said. “People who use drugs often have challenges that require support and intervention. They are guided through counselling and rehabilitation programmes to help them stay away from drugs.”
The briefing formed part of activities marking this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, with the theme: “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Challenges, New Threats, and Innovative Responses.”
Onubogu said the theme highlights the need for stronger collaboration among governments, communities and civil society to tackle evolving drug-related threats.
He stressed that the fight against illicit drugs cannot be left to the NDLEA alone, calling on the media, religious and community leaders, civil society organisations and the public to support anti-drug campaigns and sensitisation efforts.
“All hands must be on deck to address the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking. Stakeholders should use their platforms to spread awareness and help reduce the menace in society,” he said.
The commander also announced plans for a road walk and other public awareness activities in Anambra State as part of the global anti-drug campaign.
The latest figures come amid intensified nationwide efforts by the NDLEA to dismantle drug trafficking networks and curb rising substance abuse across Africa’s most populous nation.
 said it has intensified its crackdown on illicit drugs in the southeastern state of Anambra, arresting 559 suspects, securing 128 convictions, and seizing approximately 1.8 tonnes of illegal substances over the past 11 months.){kind=link}