Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Command of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have reinforced their operational alliance in a renewed push to combat drug trafficking and crimes linked to substance abuse.
The renewed commitment emerged during an operational visit by the Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, to the NDLEA State Command as part of broader efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration against insecurity.
CP Shaffa, who recently assumed duty with a pledge to deploy technology-driven and intelligence led policing strategies, was received by the NDLEA State Commander, CN Mustapha Muhammad Gidado, during the strategic engagement.
During the visit, the two security chiefs reviewed the prevailing security situation in the state, acknowledging the strong correlation between illicit drug circulation and rising criminal activities, including banditry, kidnapping, and theft.
They noted that recent NDLEA operations in Sokoto led to the seizure of over 490 kilograms of cannabis and 17,568 bottles of codeine syrup, describing the recoveries as clear evidence of the gains achievable through intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement.
Speaking during the engagement, CP Shaffa stressed that confronting drug abuse remains central to addressing the broader security challenges facing communities.
“Drug abuse is the oxygen fuelling the fire of criminality we are battling daily.
This visit is not ceremonial but operational. Our goal is to move beyond routine collaboration to full integration of our tactical capabilities,” he said.
The police commissioner outlined a three-point strategy aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two agencies.
The plan includes intensified joint raids on identified drug dens and criminal hideouts, the establishment of real time intelligence sharing channels between police tactical units and NDLEA investigators, and expanded community awareness campaigns targeting schools and grassroots communities to discourage drug abuse among youths.
According to him, the adoption of technology-driven policing and deeper collaboration with security stakeholders would significantly enhance crime prevention efforts in the state and beyond.
In his response, NDLEA Commander CN Gidado commended the initiative by the police commissioner, describing it as a timely step toward strengthening the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to dismantling drug distribution networks and protecting communities from the dangers posed by narcotics.
“The synergy between the NDLEA and the Police remains our most potent weapon against drug cartels. With CP Shaffa’s experience and our combined manpower, Sokoto will become a no-go-area for drug traffickers,” Gidado said.
He also acknowledged the support of the Police Command in providing operational cover for NDLEA officers during high-risk enforcement missions.
Both commanders agreed to maintain open communication channels and hold regular strategy review meetings to respond effectively to evolving criminal tactics.
They also pledged to sustain joint operations aimed at safeguarding communities and protecting the future of young people across Sokoto State.
Security stakeholders say the strengthened collaboration reflects a broader national resolve to tackle drug abuse and its growing role in fuelling violent crime across Nigeria.
