The Niger State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded significant progress in its fight against substance abuse, successfully rehabilitating and counselling two hundred and ninety-nine (299) drug addicts throughout the year 2025.
Command Achievements in Rehabilitation and Enforcement
State Commander, Commander Shehu Nomau Gwadabawa, disclosed this milestone during an exclusive review of the command's annual activities held at its Minna office on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. He detailed that the command's comprehensive approach included not only rehabilitation but also robust enforcement and public sensitization.
Gwadabawa specifically highlighted that 16 clients were admitted into the command's facility for intensive rehabilitation. All of them were successfully freed from drug dependency and have been reintegrated into society as productive individuals.
Widespread Arrests and Public Awareness Campaigns
On the enforcement front, the Commander revealed that the command arrested 125 suspected drug dealers within the year. The arrests comprised 124 males and one female, all of whom have been arraigned at the Federal High Court. While some have already been convicted, other cases are still undergoing trial.
Parallel to enforcement, the agency embarked on an extensive 219-day public awareness campaign across Niger State. This initiative targeted critical demographics including schoolchildren, community members, and various organizations to educate them on the dangers of drug abuse.
Commander Praises Staff, Appeals for Logistical Support
Commander Gwadabawa attributed the command's landmark successes in drug enforcement, public enlightenment, and rehabilitation to the dedication of his officers. "To be sincere, I owe a lot to my officers because they have been up and doing," he stated. He praised their resilience and God-fearing dedication, citing the interception of three tonnes of drugs and the arrest of associated dealers as a testament to their work.
He also expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from the Niger State government under Governor Muhammad Umaru Bago. However, he appealed for enhanced logistical support, particularly the provision of more patrol vehicles. The Commander noted that with eight area commands, most offices are critically lacking operational vehicles.
"If vehicles can be given to NDLEA, I assure you that with these developments, we would do more as well as do better," Gwadabawa asserted, emphasizing that improved logistics would significantly boost the agency's capacity to combat drug trafficking and abuse in the state.
