The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kebbi State says it has arrested 166 suspected drug offenders and seized more than 287 kilograms of illicit substances as authorities intensify efforts to tackle drug abuse and trafficking.
The State Commander of the NDLEA, Rabiu Abdullahi Sokoto, disclosed the figures during a press briefing to commemorate the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
According to the agency, 149 men and 17 women were arrested during the period under review, while a total of 287.351 kilograms of illegal drugs were confiscated.
Mr Sokoto said the seizures comprised 275.901 kilograms of cannabis and 11.450 kilograms of psychotropic substances.
“The command arrested 166 suspects within the period under review and successfully seized a significant quantity of illicit drugs,” he said.
The commander also revealed that 14 offenders had been prosecuted and convicted, receiving various jail terms.
Beyond enforcement, the agency said it had expanded its rehabilitation and awareness programmes. Forty people underwent rehabilitation, while 62 sensitisation campaigns were conducted across schools, communities, workplaces and religious centres under the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” Mr Sokoto said the campaign highlights the importance of prevention through education, awareness and community engagement.
He warned that drug abuse continues to pose serious health and social risks, including mental illness, family breakdown, school dropout, unemployment and criminal activities.
“Drug abuse remains a major global challenge with devastating consequences for individuals, families and society,” he said.
Mr Sokoto added that there was a strong connection between substance abuse and criminal activities, noting that some crimes are committed under the influence of drugs or to sustain addiction.
The NDLEA said it is collaborating with the Office of the First Lady of Kebbi State, Hajiya Zainab Idris, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Alive for Tomorrow Initiative and the Coalition of Kebbi State NGOs to strengthen anti-drug campaigns in the state.
Mr Sokoto thanked the First Lady for her support and urged residents to work with the agency to curb drug abuse and trafficking.
He acknowledged that Kebbi State was not immune to the growing challenge of illicit drug use but expressed confidence that collective action by government agencies, communities and stakeholders would help address the problem.
