By Ummikhaltume Abdullahi Kuta,
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Niger State
Published by Inside Agwa News
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Date: June 26, 2025
The Niger State Government has commended the steadfast efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Niger State Command, in deploying effective supply and demand reduction strategies to curb drug abuse and illicit trafficking across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Farmer Umar Mohammed Bago, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, made the commendation during the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, held at the Islamic Education Trust (IET) Hall in Minna on Thursday.
He described this year’s theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,” as timely, emphasizing that drug abuse is not only a public health emergency but also a direct threat to social cohesion, economic progress, and the collective future of society.
Highlighting the NDLEA’s achievements, the Deputy Governor pointed out the seizure of over 4,000 kilograms of illicit drugs, more than 245 arrests, and multiple convictions as clear indicators of lives being saved and communities safeguarded.
Comrade Garba called on all stakeholders—parents, teachers, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and community influencers—to act as the first line of defense. “The signs of addiction often begin at home or in schools. We must listen, guide, and protect our children,” he urged.
He reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Bago-led administration to continue supporting NDLEA and its partners both morally and materially, in the collective effort to rid the state of drug-related threats.
Earlier in his address, Commander of the NDLEA Niger State Command, Shehu Nomau Gwadabawa, emphasized the importance of public awareness and stakeholder involvement in fighting drug abuse. He highlighted ongoing state-level initiatives such as school outreach campaigns and strategic collaborations with civil society and religious groups.
The NDLEA, he said, has recorded the seizure of over 4 tons of illicit substances and the arrest of more than 200 drug dealers between January and June 2025, with many already convicted by the Federal High Court in Minna.
In a keynote speech delivered by Pharm. Abdullahi Yahaya, representing Commissioner for Health Dr. Bello Tukur, stressed the need for a whole-of-society approach in addressing the long-term dangers of drug trafficking.
Hajiya Fatima Umar Bago, Wife of the Governor and Chairperson of the State Drug Control Committee (SDCC), represented by Mrs. Mary Noel Barje, urged a paradigm shift toward prevention and early intervention for the protection of future generations.
Also lending his voice, HRH Alh. Yusuf Nuhu, Emir of Agaie, reiterated the indispensable role traditional rulers play in the campaign against drug abuse, especially in reaching young people who represent the future of the nation.
The event featured drama sketches, poetry recitations, drug awareness exhibitions, and award presentations, all aimed at educating the public and honoring key contributors to the anti-drug movement.
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