Tinubu commends NDLEA for dismantling Nigerian-Mexican drug cartel in Ogun forest

President Bola Tinubu has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for dismantling a methamphetamine laboratory in Ogun state.

On Wednesday, NDLEA announced the seizure of over 2.4 tonnes of methamphetamine and chemical materials valued at more than $362 million, equivalent to over N480 billion in the international market.

Buba Marwa, NDLEA chairman, said the industrial-scale laboratory was hidden inside a remote forest in the Ijebu east LGA of Ogun and was allegedly operated jointly by a Nigerian drug cartel and Mexican methamphetamine experts.

Marwa, at a press conference, said NDLEA operatives arrested 10 suspects, including the alleged kingpin, three Mexican nationals and six Nigerian collaborators.

Reacting to the development, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to the president, in a statement on Thursday said Tinubu praised the agency and its operatives for the operation.

According to the president, the operation reflects the professionalism and commitment of the NDLEA.

“This successful operation, which led to the arrest of foreign nationals, local kingpins and other collaborators, as well as the seizure of chemicals and illicit drugs valued at over $360 million, demonstrates exceptional professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding society from the devastating effects of narcotics,” the statement reads.

Tinubu also commended the “bravery, resilience, and dedication” of the operatives and urged the agency not to relent in the fight against drug trafficking.

He noted that West Africa has become a major concern in the global war against narcotics as drug cartels increasingly use the region as a transit route for cocaine, synthetic drugs, and unregulated pharmaceuticals destined for Europe and North America.

He added that illicit drugs pose both security and social threats, warning that many young people have become victims of the trade.

The president also called on Nigerians to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities within their communities.

“This landmark success is a strong message that our security agencies will not tolerate organised crime and criminality anywhere in the country, and that those who threaten public safety and national security will face the wrath of the law,” Tinubu said.