NDLEA Transfers 450,000 Seized Pregabalin Capsules to NAFDAC

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano State Command, has handed over 450,000 intercepted Pregabalin capsules to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for forensic analysis and regulatory review.

Pregabalin, an anticonvulsant and pain-relief medication originally developed for epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and anxiety disorders, has become one of the most widely abused prescription drugs in Nigeria. On the black market, it is misused for its sedative and euphoric effects, fueling addiction, mental health issues, and social unrest, especially among young people in northern Nigeria.

The consignment, packed in 60 cartons and concealed in a van, was intercepted recently by an NDLEA patrol team along the Kano–Hadejia road. NDLEA spokesperson Sadiq Maigatari, in a statement on Thursday, said no valid documents or proof of ownership accompanied the drugs.

Acting on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between NDLEA and NAFDAC on November 24, 2024, the agency’s Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), ordered the immediate transfer of the seized drugs to NAFDAC for further testing and regulatory action. The Kano State Command, under the leadership of ACGN A.I. Ahmad, reaffirmed its commitment to stronger inter-agency collaboration in line with the Chairman’s agenda.

On receiving the capsules, the NAFDAC coordinator commended NDLEA for honoring the MoU and pledged continued cooperation on future investigations and regulatory measures.

“This joint effort highlights the determination of both agencies to disrupt the illegal circulation of controlled medicines and safeguard public health,” Maigatari added.

The NDLEA has consistently warned against the trafficking of pregabalin, tramadol, codeine, and other controlled substances, stressing that their diversion from legitimate medical use to illicit markets threatens both public health and national security. To counter this, the agency has intensified surveillance along transit routes known for drug smuggling.

The interception of 450,000 pregabalin capsules and their handover to NAFDAC mark a practical demonstration of the NDLEA–NAFDAC partnership aimed at tightening enforcement and closing gaps exploited by traffickers.