NDLEA records 974 drug convictions in three months as 11 major drug kingpins receive a combined 254-year prison sentence in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s war against drug trafficking has recorded a major breakthrough, as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) announced 974 convictions within the first quarter of 2026.

Among those convicted are 11 high-profile drug kingpins who were handed a combined 254 years in prison, marking a significant milestone in the country’s crackdown on illegal drug activities.

🚨 974 Convictions in Just Three Months

According to the NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, the convictions were secured between January and March 2026 as part of intensified nationwide enforcement operations.

Out of the total convictions:

– 899 were male offenders

– 75 were female offenders

A monthly breakdown shows:

– January: 265 convictions

– February: 316 convictions

– March: 393 convictions

The figures reflect a steady increase in enforcement and prosecution efforts across the country.

⚖️ 11 Drug Kingpins Face Heavy Sentences

The highlight of the crackdown was the conviction of 11 major drug traffickers, described as key figures in organized drug networks.

One of the most notable cases involved Adegbite Solomon, also known as “Obama,” a 42-year-old businessman based in Italy. He was convicted on multiple charges and sentenced to a total of 130 years in prison.

In addition to his jail term, the court ordered:

– Revocation of his pharmacy license

– Forfeiture of pharmacy branches

– Seizure of funds from multiple bank accounts

Another major offender, Ridwan Animashaun, received a 25-year sentence for drug trafficking. He had previously been convicted for a similar offense, highlighting concerns over repeat offenders.

📦 Other Major Sentences

Several other convicted traffickers also received lengthy prison terms:

– Rauf Asogba and Seun Olaniyi were sentenced to 17 years each for trafficking large quantities of illicit substances

– Jonathan Nuhu and Idris Yusuf received 15-year jail terms each

– Other offenders across different states were sentenced to seven years imprisonment for various drug-related crimes

These convictions cut across multiple regions, showing the nationwide scale of the operation.

🔥 NDLEA Intensifies War on Drugs

NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the development as a major turning point in Nigeria’s fight against drug abuse and trafficking.

He emphasized that the convictions send a clear message that the country is no longer a safe haven for drug traffickers.

“Securing 974 convictions in just three months is a testament to the relentless efforts of our officers,” he stated.

He also commended the judiciary for ensuring swift trials, noting that faster prosecution is a strong deterrent against criminal activities.

⚠️ Strong Warning to Drug Offenders

The agency reiterated its commitment to dismantling drug networks and prosecuting offenders without delay.

Authorities warned that anyone involved in drug trafficking will face the full consequences of the law, as enforcement continues to intensify nationwide.

📌 Final Thoughts

The NDLEA’s latest achievement highlights a significant step forward in Nigeria’s fight against illegal drugs.

With nearly 1,000 convictions recorded in just three months, the agency is sending a strong signal that drug-related crimes will no longer be tolerated.

As operations continue, Nigerians are encouraged to remain vigilant and support efforts to combat drug trafficking by providing useful information to authorities.