The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has praised the Nigeria Customs Service, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for their joint efforts in tackling the scourge of illicit drugs and contraband goods in Nigeria.
During a special commendation event held at his office in Abuja, Ribadu recognised the agencies’ achievements following a successful multi-agency operation that led to the destruction of 206 containers and a trailer-load of unwholesome pharmaceuticals and narcotics. He described the collaboration as a benchmark for inter-agency synergy in safeguarding national security.
“This is an acknowledgment of the good work you’ve been doing,” Ribadu told attendees. “Nigeria is changing. It won’t be business as usual anymore. We’ll go after the criminals who bring these poisons into our country.”
The NSA also highlighted the recent conclusion of a major investigative review involving 50 containers, praising the determination and professionalism demonstrated by the agencies involved.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, reiterated the Service’s commitment, noting that the Nigeria Customs Service had declared a state of emergency on illicit pharmaceutical trafficking earlier this year. He credited the NSA’s support for the speed and success of the inter-agency operation.
“We are stronger together,” Adeniyi stated. “And we will remain vigilant to ensure these substances never make it into the wrong hands.”
NAFDAC’s Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, said the operation aligns with Nigeria’s National Action Plan on drug abuse and the illegal importation of pharmaceuticals. She disclosed that more than 1,300 security personnel had been mobilised across the country on the directive of the NSA to reinforce the efforts of NAFDAC, NDLEA, and Customs.
“These unregistered and unwholesome products are a danger to our women and children,” she warned. “Our continued collaboration with Customs and NDLEA is saving lives.”
Shadrac Haruna, representing the NDLEA Chairman, acknowledged the pivotal role of an inter-agency committee established by the CGC, which he said had strengthened coordination and improved intelligence sharing among agencies.
He emphasised that the cooperation has helped remove dangerous drugs from circulation and dismantle illegal storage facilities.
As a mark of appreciation, plaques and letters of commendation were presented to the heads of the three agencies. Ribadu was also presented with a Certificate of Destruction as a symbolic reaffirmation of Nigeria’s resolve to eradicate illicit drugs and safeguard public health.