The Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has been honoured with the distinguished Chairman Chief Executive Officer Award of Excellence. The award recognises the outstanding performance in ingenuity and exceptional contributions to combating drug trafficking and abuse in Edo State.
The 11th edition of the award ceremony, held in Abuja, brought together leaders and commanders from various commands across the country. The NDLEA Edo State Command stood out for its innovative strategies, operational successes, and community-focused initiatives that have significantly enhanced the agency’s effectiveness in the State.
Speaking on the achievement, Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju expressed gratitude to his team and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining zero tolerance for drug-related offences.
“This award is a reflection of the dedication, resilience, and creativity of our officers. We are motivated to continue pioneering new approaches to drug enforcement and rehabilitation efforts to ensure a safer Edo State,” he said.
Under Dr Ofoyeju’s leadership, the NDLEA Edo State Command has implemented advanced intelligence-gathering techniques, strengthened inter-agency collaboration, and launched educational campaigns aimed at reducing drug abuse among youths.
These initiatives have led to increased seizures of illicit substances and successful prosecution of offenders. The command in 2025 arrested 462 suspected drug traffickers comprising 309 males and 153 females and made a seizure of 207,595.54kg drugs. It also secured 66 convictions and carried out counseling services to 300 persons with drug abuse disorders.
According to Commander Mitchell, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State has taken a bold step with the Inauguration of the Edo State and Local Government Drug Control Committees headed by Her Excellency, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani. This platform will work with stakeholders across the State in fighting the drug problem using a multidimensional approach.
The Chairman Chief Executive Officer Award of Excellence adds to the growing list of accolades recognizing the NDLEA Edo State Command as a model of operational excellence and innovative leadership in the fight against narcotics in Nigeria.
As the Command celebrates this milestone, stakeholders and residents of Edo State are hopeful that such recognitions will further galvanize efforts to eradicate drug menace and promote a drug-free society.
