By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano Strategic Command said it arrested 230 suspects during 30 days coordinated operation in collaboration with the police and other security agencies, in collective efforts to rid Kano State of drug abuse and other crimes linked to it.

NDLEA achieved the feat in continuation of its intensified efforts under the Kano State Joint Taskforce for Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation, led by Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata.

The outgoing Commander, A.I. Ahmad told journalists on Friday that the NDLEA in synergy with the police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigeria Correctional Service, conducted a comprehensive 30-day non-stop operation across Kano State.

According to him, the operation led to the arrest of 230 suspects involved in various drug-related offences and the recovery of significant quantities of illicit substances and weapons.

“The raids were strategically targeted at notorious drug hotspots across the state, including Kofar Ruwa, Tashar Rami, Rijiyar Lemo, Kurna, Mil Tara, Zage, Dorayi Karshen Waya, Dawanau, Filin Idi, Research, Rimi Market, Zango, Kofar Mata, Kano Line, and Ladanai, among other identified drug joints.

“During the operation, our operatives confiscated a variety of illicit substances, including cannabis sativa, EXOL-5, diazepam, “suck and die,” rubber solution, and codeine syrup, alongside several locally made weapons,” he said.

He further stated that: “The operation underscores the commitment of the NDLEA and our partner security agencies to eliminate drug abuse, which remains a major enabler of crimes such as thuggery, phone snatching, and other social vices. The positive impact of this operation is already evident, with residents of Kano witnessing a noticeable reduction in substance abuse and related criminal activities.

“This remarkable success is a testament to the effectiveness of synergy among security agencies. The peace and safety currently being enjoyed in Kano State are direct results of this collaboration, and we are determined to sustain these gains.

“Let me take this opportunity to appreciate the outstanding leadership and support of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, sfipma, mnim, mnips, masis, whose guidance has been instrumental in fostering unity among security agencies. I also commend the Department of State Services for their surveillance and invaluable contributions to the success of this operation.”

Ahmad expressed gratitude to the Kano State Government and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, for their unwavering support in curbing substance abuse and thuggery.

“The visible efforts of the State Government in this regard have significantly bolstered our ongoing security and rehabilitation initiatives.

“I must also commend the dedication and professionalism of the officers and men of the NDLEA, the Nigerian Police Force, and all our partner security agencies who participated in this operation. Your tireless efforts have made this achievement possible.

“As we move forward, I call on community leaders, parents, civil society organizations, and members of the public to join hands with security agencies in this fight against drug abuse and its associated crimes. Together, we can create a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Kano State,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ahmad, on Friday, handed over duty to the new narcotic officer of the state, CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal.

Ahmad said he had eventful period commanding NDLEA in Kano for about four years.

He said: “I will be moving to my new appointment as Deputy Director, Directorate of Assets and Financial Investigations. This is a moment of great significance for me personally and a moment to reflect on what we have achieved together for the people of Kano State.

“When I assumed this responsibility our mandate was clear: to reduce both the supply of and demand for illicit drugs across Kano. We met that mandate with determination, intelligence-led operations, and sustained community engagement.

” During my tenure more than 3,000 suspects were arrested and many successfully prosecuted. Landmark convictions tell the story of our resolve: the 12 dealers from the notorious Filin Idi drug den received a combined 41 years’ imprisonment, and a May 2025 prosecution resulted in a total of 33 years’ imprisonment for four high-profile traffickers, while one notable dealer was sentenced to life imprisonment.”

According to him: “Operation ‘Hana Maye’ became the symbol of our offensive against traffickers, dismantling networks, arresting over 400 suspects and recovering a wide range of illicit substances. Across multiple operations we seized in excess of 25 tonnes of assorted illicit drugs, including a single, decisive interception of 5,000,000 tramadol tablets destined for illegal distribution among our youths. We recovered and publicly destroyed 15 tonnes of illicit drugs and uncovered and eradicated more than five cannabis plantations, directly preventing future harvests and supply.

“Enforcement alone is not enough; prevention anchors long-term success. Our “Catch Them Young” programme reached deep into schools, communities and vulnerable neighbourhoods, equipping parents, teachers and young people with awareness that reduces demand and strengthens resilience. These combined measures have begun to turn the tide: Kano State, which since 2018 recorded some of the highest drug-related case numbers nationally, is now showing meaningful declines — proof that consistent operations, community partnerships, prayers and prosecutorial follow-through work.”School supplies

Ahmad further stated that, “the elevation of the Kano State Command to Kano Strategic Command marks another milestone. This recognition expands our operational scope, raises our responsibilities and positions us better to confront evolving threats posed by traffickers. None of this would have been possible without trust and collaboration.

“I am grateful to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Agency, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, for his confidence and for the opportunity to serve in an expanded capacity. I thank His Excellency Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf and the Kano State Government for steady support, our security partners for shared intelligence and coordinated action, and media houses, NGOs, traditional and community leaders, and philanthropists for amplifying our War Against Drug Abuse messages and for their tireless work in prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.

“As I move to the Directorate of Assets and Financial Investigations I carry with me valuable lessons from Kano and confidence in the solid foundations our team has laid. I call on government agencies, security services, civil society, faith and community leaders, the media and all citizens to extend the same cooperation and support to CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal. He inherits a mission and a momentum: to sustain, deepen and accelerate the progress we have made.

“The war against drugs is not the task of one person or one unit; it is the responsibility of every sector of society. It has been an honour to serve the people of Kano State. The torch is passed, the fight continues, and with unity of purpose we will protect our youth, restore our communities and secure a safer future for all.”

Source; PM News