By Christopher Oji
The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the state Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Mitchell Ofoyeju and other stakeholders have unanimously called for concerted efforts to dislodge drug trafficking cartels who cultivate cannabis and traffic illicit drugs. This was the position of eminent leaders who gathered to commemorate the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which was held at the Festival Hall, State House, Benin City.
Governor Okpebholo, in his address presented by the secretary to the state government, Musa Ikhilor, emphasised the urgent need for coordinated actions to dismantle drug syndicates that pose grave threats to society. “We must stand firm against the drug trade that endangers the lives of our youth and disrupts our communities. Operations of drug trafficking cartels must be dismantled. Our position on crime control in Edo state is very clear. We are collaborating with the NDLEA to reduce cases of drug production, trafficking and abuse to the barest minimum in the state,” he stated.
Commander Ofoyeju also echoed the governor’s position, underlining the NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to tackling drug trafficking and abuse in the state:We cannot allow drug barons to continue their destructive influence in the state. The life of every Edo inhabitant is precious and must be protected from derailment through drug misuse. We are prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to eradicate this scourge and create a safer environment for all. The threats posed by illicit cannabis cultivation, drug trafficking, and abuse must therefore be neutralised,” he declared.
Ofoyeju expressed deep appreciation for the support of Okpebholo, emphasising his role in championing drug control efforts through his SHINE agenda, which focuses on security, healthcare, infrastructure, natural resources, and education. He highlighted the correlation between drug abuse and various societal issues, including increasing crime rates, healthcare burdens, and environmental degradation.
The event featured a series of goodwill messages from notable leaders like the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Honourable Adebaku Sheriff Blessing, and heads of security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika, the State Comptroller Nigeria Immigration Service, (NIS) Martins Monyei, and the Commandant Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSDC) Gbenga Agun. Each representative highlighted their agencies’ dedication to partnering with the NDLEA in the fight against drug trafficking as well as ensuring the safety of the populace.
There was a panel discussion that focused on drug abuse control, where experts shared insights on prevention strategies and the importance of community involvement. The discussion aimed to foster greater awareness and inspire local initiatives to combat drug-related issues. Discussants included Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Executive Chairman of the Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE) Barrister Briggs Onome and Chief Executive Officer of Smarce Group of Companies, Smarce Oghenemarho and the NDLEA Commander Ofoyeju.
A quiz competition among nine secondary schools was conducted to test the knowledge of the students about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of healthy lifestyle choices. Mesh International School, Benin City, represented by Godfrey Shalom and Osaweweren Precious, took the first position. The second and third positions were occupied by Pioneer Educational Centre School II, represented by Ogieriaikhi Owen Joan and Evidence Ovigbe, and Pioneer Educational Centre School 1, represented by Aforke Champion Chika and Ikponwosa Victory, respectively.
The highlight of the event was a presentation of awards by the NDLEA Edo state commander Ofoyeju to Governor Okpebholo in appreciation of his outstanding leadership and unwavering support in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. The Senior Special Assistant to the governor of Edo state on Drugs and Illicit Trafficking Control, Hon. Andrew Oghenovo, was also honoured for his exceptional partnership in promoting anti-drug abuse awareness. Similarly, the Chairman Chief Executive Officer of Uyi Technical, Mr Francis Omoruyi, was rewarded for his exceptional service and commitment to the anti-narcotic campaign.
Honourable Andrew, in his remarks, noted that in recognition of the worrisome drug prevalence level in the state, Governor Okpebholo has decided to give priority attention to drug control through the establishment of his office and support for the NDLEA. In his words, “The governor recognises the dangers of drug trafficking and abuse, and he is determined to address the drug problem in the state. He is also working with the NDLEA to construct a rehabilitation centre that will make treatment accessible to persons with drug abuse problem.”
The founder of New Bridges Foundation, Eghogho Okpebholo, motivated participants to renew their commitment to combating drug abuse, with a shared vision of building a healthier, drug-free Edo State.
Meanwhile, NDLEA has concluded plans to launch anti-narcotic operations at the Benin City Airport. This was the outcome of a visit by Ofoyeju, to the General Manager of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Akinbinu Felix, on how to keep drug barons away from the airport.
Ofoyeju emphasised the urgent need for enhanced vigilance and cooperation between NDLEA and FAAN to curb the rising trend of drug smuggling through air travel. “We recognise the pivotal role that Benin City Airport plays in transportation dynamics. The command’s grand strategy is to make Edo State impregnable to drug cartels by air, water and land. This way we can create a safer society by preventing the trafficking of illicit drugs,” Ofoyeju stated.
The commander explained the grave implications of drug trafficking, describing it as a deeply entrenched threat that jeopardises the health and safety of citizens while also undermining the socio-economic fabric of the State. A dedicated NDLEA presence at the airport aims to implement robust screening processes and strategies to intercept illicit substances before they get to end users,” Ofoyeju stressed.
The general manager of FAAN expressed his support for the NDLEA’s initiatives and highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance airport security. “The fight against drug trafficking requires a united front. We are committed to working with the NDLEA in ensuring that the Benin City Airport remains free from drug-related activities,” Felix assured. Ofio underscored the critical need for collaboration between NDLEA and FAAN, emphasising the pivotal role air transport plays in drug smuggling operations. He explained that the NDLEA’s mandate encompasses a wide array Ofoyeju responsibilities, including enforcing drug laws established under the enabling Act of the Agency. He reiterated the Agency’s resolve to halt cannabis cultivation, expose clandestine laboratories for methamphetamine production, trace and impound illegal drugs, and significantly reduce drug demand through enforcement measures, public enlightenment, and rehabilitation programmes.
In addition to operational strategies, Ofoyeju mentioned the Agency’s ongoing public awareness campaign programmes aimed at educating members of the society about the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking. He underscored the need for community involvement and outlined plans for engagement with local stakeholders to foster support for NDLEA efforts.
Ofoyeju highlighted the establishment of a toll-free hotline for individuals in need of counselling and the drug testing mechanism introduced by the Chairman Chief Executive, Brig. General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.).These measures bring drug abuse counselling to the homes of citizens as well as promote the culture of drug testing.
Felix expressed his willingness to assist in the fight against drug trafficking, recalling his previous relationship with the anti-narcotic body at the Port Harcourt Airport in Rivers State. He promised to provide substantial support for the NDLEA. In appreciation, Ofoyeju decorated him as a War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) partner and equally presented him with an NDLEA souvenir.
As the NDLEA prepares to extend its reach into airport operations, it is expected that these measures will significantly mitigate the drug menace and promote a healthier, drug-free environment in Benin City, Edo state.