The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has established a mini drug treatment and rehabilitation centre in Damaturu, Yobe.

Abdulazeez Ogungboye, the state NDLEA commander, stated this while briefing journalists in Damaturu on Thursday as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The theme of the 2025 campaign is “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”.

Mr Ogungboye noted that the centre, which had since commenced operation, was one of the numerous achievements of the agency in the state.

“A total of nine drug dependents were admitted to the facility. Out of this number, eight have successfully been rehabilitated, discharged, and reunited with their families, while one is still undergoing rehabilitation.

“One of them is empowered to start a business centre through the generosity of an anonymous donor,” he said.

The commander stated that, in view of the high cost of services at the centre, the agency collaborated with philanthropists in the state to assist in offsetting the bills of low-income clients.

Mr Ogungboye advised drug dependents in the 17 local government areas to liaise with NDLEA zonal commanders nearest to them on how to access the facility, which was the first of its kind in the state.

He also said that between June 26, 2024, and June 26, 2025, 438.73 kg of various illicit drugs were confiscated.

The commander said 300.696 kg of the drugs seized were cannabis, while psychotropic substances stood at 137.288 kg.

Mr Ogungboye said 56 drug abuse suspects were convicted, 148 drug dependents benefited from counselling, and 96 drug cases were pending in various courts.

He commended Governor Mai Mala Buni and sister agencies for their various support to the agency to execute its mandate effectively.

Other activities of the week included a road walk from the Emir of Damaturu’s palace to the agency’s headquarters.

“There have been religious sermons at the Damaturu Central Mosque on June 20 and ECWA Goodnews Church, Damaturu, on June 22.

“The collaborative efforts of these religious organisations were targeted at creating drug abuse awareness among adherents of the two major religions,” he said.

(NAN)