Breaking: Tinubu Reacts As NDLEA Cracks International Nigerian-Mexican Drug Network

The President described the operation as a major breakthrough in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against organised crime, drug trafficking, and transnational criminal activities.

Tinubu’s reaction was conveyed in a statement released on Thursday in Abuja by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.

Earlier, the Chairman of the NDLEA, Buba Marwa, had announced the success of the operation following weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated security efforts involving both local operatives and international partners.

According to the agency, the operation resulted in the arrest of several foreign nationals, suspected drug kingpins, and other collaborators linked to the network. Authorities also recovered chemicals and illicit substances valued at over $360 million during the exercise.

President Tinubu praised the professionalism, courage, and dedication displayed by NDLEA personnel throughout the operation, while also urging them to remain steadfast in the fight against narcotics trafficking.

He said the success of the operation sends a strong warning that Nigeria will not permit drug cartels or organised criminal syndicates to operate freely within its borders.

Tinubu also expressed concern over the growing role of West Africa as a transit hub for illegal drugs, noting that traffickers increasingly use the region to transport cocaine, synthetic narcotics, and unregulated pharmaceutical products to Europe and North America.

According to the President, the expansion of these networks poses serious threats to both national and regional security, as drug trafficking often fuels corruption, violence, and organised crime across borders.

He further warned about the devastating impact of illicit drugs on young people, stressing that many youths have become victims of addiction and criminal exploitation linked to the drug trade.

Tinubu stated that the fight against narcotics should not be viewed solely as the responsibility of the NDLEA, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities within their communities.

He emphasized that timely information from citizens can help security agencies uncover criminal operations and dismantle trafficking networks more effectively.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the NDLEA and other security agencies in their efforts to combat organised crime, protect communities, and strengthen national security.