The National Drug Law
Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has fortified security checks at the borders and seaports to make it difficult for drug traffickers to penetrate or leave the country.
The Chairman of NDLEA, Ahmed Giade, made the assertion in an interview with our correspondent on Tuesday in Lagos.
Giade told our correspondent on telephone that the agency’s commanders at the points of entry and exit were collaborating with the Nigeria Customs Service to monitor the movement of goods and services.
He said the NDLEA also conducted search on vehicles and containers suspected to contain drugs and investigate suspicious shipments at all entry and exit points, including airports.
According to him, the agency is conducting enlightenment campaigns in workplaces, schools, motor parks, markets and other places.
The chairman added that the steps were taken to create drug awareness through the enlightenment programme in the society at all levels.
“The agency has a zero tolerance for drug trafficking and smuggling business across the country; we have deployed our officers to all the boarders and areas prone to trafficking.
“Besides investigation, arrests and prosecution of drug offenders, the NDLEA is saddled with conducting enlightenment about drugs in workplaces, schools, motor parks, markets and other places,’’ Giade said.
The chairman appealed to youths to turn away from illicit drug trafficking business as it would not only destroy their health but would dent the country’s image.
“Efforts shall be intensified towards public enlightenment on the dangers of drug production, trafficking and abuse through the social agents such as guardians, churches and mosques,” he said.
He promised that the agency would work round the clock in addressing the problems of drug trafficking and ensure that Nigeria was regarded as a drug-free nation.