National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and internal security in Nigeria: A case study of Kano State, 1989 – 2019

Abstract

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) was established in 1989 and has the mandate to curb the illicit production, importation, sale, and trafficking of psychoactive substances in Nigeria. There exists a relationship between unsanctioned drug use and crime. In recognition of the nexus between drug trafficking and abuse on one hand and violence and criminal activities on the other, the NDLEA is charged with the duty of combating drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria. Over the years, Nigeria in general and northern Nigeria particularly, has witnessed an increasing degree of insecurity. Banditry, farmers-herders conflicts, kidnapping, and terrorism have constituted serious security challenges to the area. It is against this background that this study employs a historical method of inquiry to investigate the role of the NDLEA in internal security using Kano State as a case study. The research examines the NDLEA's mandate, operational activities, achievements, challenges, and its impact on internal security. Findings reveal that the NDLEA in the state have positively impacted internal security through its operations, awareness programmes and collaborations with other agencies resulting in the control of illicit drug trafficking and abuse.