The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Enugu Command, has announced the seizure of 929.463 kilogrammes of various illegal drugs and the conviction of 53 drug dealers in Enugu State.
These drugs, which include Cannabis Sativa and methamphetamine, also known as Crystal Meth or “Mkpuru Mmiri,” were taken between November 2025 and June 2026.
Owoputi Adekunle, the Commander of the NDLEA in Enugu State, shared this news on Friday. This announcement came during the observance of the 2026 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Enugu.
The event took place in partnership with the Enugu State Government and had the theme: “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Response.”
Participants at the event included students, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, government officials, and other stakeholders involved in the fight against drug abuse.
Mr Adekunle noted that during this period, the command also offered counselling to 157 clients, with 23 individuals currently in rehabilitation.
He stated that the command's prosecution unit had also achieved significant results.
“Our prosecution unit is not left out. A total of 53 suspects have been convicted, while 111 cases are still ongoing at the Federal High Court.
“Besides the convictions, assets acquired from drug trafficking have been seized by the federal government.”
The commander described drug abuse and trafficking as major threats to public health, security, and national development. He urged everyone to work harder on prevention, awareness, and rehabilitation efforts.
“Drug abuse destroys lives, families, and communities. It especially harms our youth, who are the future of our nation.
“As law enforcement officers, we are committed to cutting down the supply of illegal drugs while partnering with communities, schools, religious organizations, traditional leaders, and other security agencies to support a drug-free society,” he added.
Mr Adekunle also encouraged the public to join the fight against drug abuse by educating others, reporting drug-related activities, and supporting rehabilitation efforts.
Gov Mbah speaks on drug abuse
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State also spoke at the event. He urged young people to steer clear of drugs and instead take advantage of the opportunities created by the state government.
Represented by the State Commissioner for Health, George Ugwu, the governor explained that the government has opened opportunities in agriculture, digital technology, and mechanized farming to empower youths and keep them away from drugs.
“We cannot build the economy with youths who are not hardworking. It is with your brains and physical strength that our economy can grow.
“The consequences of drug abuse are huge, and we must ensure our youths stay productive and contribute positively to economic development,” he stated.
He added that special health units for adolescents are being set up to address drug abuse among young people.
During the keynote speech, Roland Okereke, a senior registrar at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, referred to substance abuse as a “chronic illness” that ruins lives and limits future chances.
Mr Okereke emphasized that prevention is the best strategy. He mentioned that many people with substance use disorders delay seeking medical help due to stigma and lack of access to treatment.
He noted that the South-east has only one federal neuropsychiatric hospital offering specialized treatment for substance use disorders, creating a significant treatment gap.
Commonly abused substances include alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine, cocaine, hallucinogens, and new synthetic psychoactive drugs.
He warned that drug abuse leads to increased mortality, crime, violence, terrorism, and other social issues. He urged families not to stigmatize those affected but to encourage them to seek professional help.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Emmanuel Anichebe, who is also the Chairman of Ezeagu Traditional Rulers Council, called on parents to pay more attention to their children's upbringing.
He urged parents to build better relationships with their children. This way, children can share their challenges and get proper guidance before they are negatively influenced by peers.
Highlights of the event included decorating Governor Mbah as an ambassador against drug abuse, drama presentations, debates, and Q&A sessions on drug abuse awareness.
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