NDLEA Kano Commander hands over duty, Highlights major achievements in drug war
Kola Oyelere, Kano
The outgoing Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kano State Strategic Command, ACGN A.I. Ahmad, has handed over leadership of the command to CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal after nearly four years of what he described as “intense, intelligence-driven and community-anchored operations” against drug abuse and trafficking in the state.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing in Kano on Friday, Ahmad, who has been appointed Deputy Director, Directorate of Assets and Financial Investigations, said the period between February 2022 and November 2025 marked a turning point in the fight against narcotics in the state.
According to him, the command arrested more than 3,000 suspects, many of whom were successfully prosecuted. He cited landmark convictions, including 12 dealers from the notorious Filin Idi drug den jailed for a combined 41 years, and a May 2025 judgment that sentenced four major traffickers to a total of 33 years, while another high-profile dealer received a life sentence.
Ahmad described Operation Hana Maye as one of the command’s most impactful offensives, leading to the arrest of over 400 suspects, dismantling of several trafficking networks, and the recovery of large quantities of illicit substances. Overall, the command seized more than 25 tonnes of assorted drugs, including the interception of 5 million tramadol tablets intended for illegal distribution.
He added that the agency also destroyed 15 tonnes of recovered drugs, uncovered and eradicated over five cannabis plantations, and intensified preventive efforts through the Catch Them Young programme, which targeted schools, communities and high-risk neighbourhoods.
“These combined measures have begun to turn the tide. Kano, once among states with the highest drug-related cases, is now recording meaningful declines,” he said.
Ahmad also highlighted the recent elevation of the command to Kano State Strategic Command, describing it as a recognition of its expanding responsibilities and operational successes.
He expressed gratitude to the NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, security agencies, community leaders, NGOs, philanthropists and the media for their support in advancing the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign.
The outgoing commander urged all stakeholders to extend the same cooperation to his successor, CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal, stressing that the fight against drugs “is not for one individual or one unit, but a shared responsibility.”
“It has been an honour to serve the people of Kano State. The torch is passed, the fight continues, and with unity we can secure a safer future for all,” Ahmad said.