26/06/2026
*PRESS RELEASE*
*NDLEA BORNO COMMAND MARKS 2026 UN WORLD DRUG DAY: “INNOVATIVE RESPONSES TO PERSISTING DRUG CHALLENGES”*
*Maiduguri, 26th June 2026* – The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Borno State Command, has called for _“innovative compassion over silence”_ as it joined the world to commemorate the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Illicit Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Speaking at the event, State Commander CN Usman Sule said this year’s UN theme: *“The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses”* demands a scientific, evidence-based approach that prioritizes prevention and treatment.
*Key Highlights from the Commander’s Address:*
1. *Persisting & New Challenges*: The Command noted that while Cannabis, Codeine, Tramadol and Pentazocine remain major threats, new challenges are emerging. Drugs are now marketed via social media, and highly chemicalized variants like “Loud, Arizona, Colorado” and electric Sh**ha are replacing local cannabis.
2. *2025-2026 Operational Scorecard*: From 26th June 2025 to date, the Command recorded:
- *Arrests*: 657 total [630 Male, 27 Female]
- *Counseling Sessions*: 532
- *Rehabilitation Clients*: 93
- *Convictions Secured*: 76, with 86 cases pending
- *Forfeited Assets*: 6 Vehicles
- *Drugs Seized*: 1,038.342 kg
- *Prevention*: 48 drug-free clubs in secondary schools and 6 in tertiary institutions
3. *Innovative Response*: The Commander said the fight must move to homes, schools, and communities. _“It means mothers talking openly with their daughters. It means fathers being present. It means our schools adopting drug testing and counseling with compassion,”_ he stated.
4. *Call to Action*: _“The fight against drug abuse cannot be won by government or security agencies alone. It is won in our homes, schools, mosques, churches, and communities. Let us choose prevention over regret. Let us choose life over drugs,”_ CN Sule said. He also appealed to youths: _“You are more valuable than any high. Your future is brighter than any escape drugs can offer. If you are struggling, please speak up. Help is here. Healing is possible.”_
The Command commended the Borno State Government under Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum for its support.
*Signed*
Public Affairs Unit
NDLEA Borno State Command
For: CN Usman Sule, State Commander