By Segun Olatunji
Nigerians have been urged to unite in efforts to eliminate the use of illicit drugs to preserve the future of children and promoting socioeconomic wellbeing nationwide.
The Commander of Narcotics, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Tincan Island Port Strategic Command, Lagos, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju made the call during the command’s annual awards ceremony to recognize outstanding officers in the fight for a drug-free Nigeria.
He emphasised that most societal vices, including domestic violence and insecurity, can be attributed to illicit drug abuse, making its eradication imperative.
Mr. Ofoyeju stated that the command achieved a significant milestone by seizing 339,576.91 kilograms of illicit substances, including cocaine and heroin, valued at One hundred and thirty-four points two billion Naira.
Ofoyeju revealed that during the year under review, 38 drug suspects, including one female, were apprehended, with twelve of them convicted, while no fewer than 26 cases are pending at the law courts; observing that the feat has brought relative calmness in the country.
He pointed out that recognizing outstanding workers has been a tradition of the command to promote excellence, as he also stressed the determination of the NDLEA to adopt best practices that will put its officers ahead of the drug traffickers.
The award recipients included the Most Productive Officer-in-Charge of the Year won by ACN Adefunke Akindele, Most Enterprising Officer of the Year won by ACN Muje Stephen, WADA Facilitator of the Year won by ACN Salihu Isa Machi, and Most Dedicated Officer of the Year won by CSN Audu Samuel, while the Best Dressed Officer of the Year went to SNA Mohammed Musa.
The commander also presented the Best WADA Media Partner of the Year to Mr. Davidson Iriekpen of This Day Newspapers for his tenacity and dedication to anti-drug abuse public enlightenment.
In a presentation, Assistant Commander of Narcotics Mr Isal Salihu, highlighted the command’s multifaceted approach, which encompasses not only the removal of drugs from society but also the arrest, and prosecution of those involved.
High-ranking officers of sister agencies, including Immigration, Police, DSS, and Port associations, graced the occasion.
