The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Kano Strategic Command, on Monday destroyed more than 12 tonnes of illicit drugs seized during operations across Kano State and at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport.
The Punch reported that the development was disclosed in a statement issued by the command’s Media and Advocacy Officer, Sadiq Maigatari, and made available to Punch on Monday.
“The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Kano Strategic Command has publicly destroyed 12,233.946 kilograms (approximately 12.234 tonnes) of assorted illicit narcotics and psychotropic substances intercepted and forfeited through sustained intelligence-led operations across Kano State and at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport.
“Led by Commander CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal, the exercise marks a major milestone in the Agency’s War Against Drug Abuse and demonstrates NDLEA’s resolve to intercept, investigate, prosecute and permanently remove dangerous substances from circulation,” the statement said.
According to the agency, the destroyed drugs were recovered through a series of intelligence-driven operations, targeted raids and other enforcement activities conducted within the state.
The statement noted that between January and June 2026, the command arrested 904 suspects, including 869 men and 35 women, while also confiscating more than 2.5 tonnes of illicit substances.
“Since January 2026, the Kano Strategic Command has arrested over 904 suspects (869 male, 35 female), seized more than 2.5 tonnes of assorted illicit substances during the period, and secured over 54 convictions.
“Some offenders have received sentences of up to 15 years — evidence that arrests lead to prosecutions and prosecutions lead to consequences,” the statement said.
Speaking at the event, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf said the destruction of the drugs underscored the government’s commitment to preventing criminal groups from endangering communities through drug trafficking and abuse.
He stressed that the fight against illicit drugs would not rely solely on law enforcement but would also include rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.
He cited initiatives such as visits to the Kiru Rehabilitation Centre, the Anti-Illicit Drugs and Phone Snatching Committee, the deployment of marshals to identified hotspots and the Safe Corridor Project aimed at helping affected youths return to productive lives.
Yusuf further revealed that more than 400 youths had been arrested under the state’s anti-drug campaign, adding that the majority had been rehabilitated and reintegrated, while major drug dealers were being prosecuted.
The governor also pledged sustained support for the NDLEA through intelligence sharing, improved rehabilitation services and enhanced logistical assistance.
