The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 312 suspects and seized 803.672 kilograms of illicit drugs in Akwa Ibom State between June 2024 and May 2025.
Mrs. Obot Bassey, the Akwa Ibom Commander of NDLEA, revealed these figures during a press conference in Uyo marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, themed "The Evidence Is Clear: Invest In Prevention, #Break the Circle."
Breakdown of Arrests and Seizures
According to Bassey, of the 312 suspects arrested, 261 were males and 51 were females. The command successfully prosecuted and convicted 38 drug offenders during this period.
"From June 2024 to May 2025, we have arrested 312 suspects made up of 261 males and 51 females, and we have seized quantity of drug 803.672 kg," Bassey stated.
Rehabilitation and Prevention Efforts
Beyond enforcement actions, the NDLEA has been active in rehabilitation and prevention initiatives. The command treated and rehabilitated 43 male drug-dependent persons and conducted drug abuse prevention education at 91 locations across Akwa Ibom State. Additionally, 179 persons received counseling services.
Bassey emphasized that drug abuse is not merely a criminal issue but also a public health concern, stressing that prevention requires collective responsibility from all stakeholders.
"We call on parents, educators, religious leaders, and community members to join hands in creating a supportive environment that fosters healthy lifestyles and deters drug use," she said.
Call for Support
The commander appealed to the government, philanthropists, individuals, and institutions to invest significantly in drug use prevention measures. While commending the state government for its support, she specifically requested logistics vehicles to enable the command to effectively operate across all 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State.
Bassey also expressed gratitude to sister security agencies for their collaboration in working toward a drug-free society, noting that the NDLEA's mission extends beyond law enforcement to protecting the future of Nigerian children.
"Apart from enforcing the laws, we are also ensuring the protection of the future of Nigerian children," she remarked, reminding youth that drugs negatively impact both individual health and societal well-being.
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