NDLEA transfers 450,000 seized Pregabalin capsules to NAFDAC for testing

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

Pregabalin, an anticonvulsant and pain-relief medication, has in recent years become one of Nigeria’s most abused prescription drugs. Originally intended for epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and anxiety disorders, it is now widely misused for its sedative and euphoric effects. The drug’s growing abuse has been linked to addiction, mental health crises, and social unrest, particularly among youths in northern Nigeria.

The consignment was intercepted by an NDLEA patrol team on the Kano–Hadejia road. It was concealed in a van and packed in 60 cartons.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Sadiq Maigatari, said in a statement on Thursday, “The seized items were brought to the NDLEA office for investigation; no legitimate ownership or documentation was presented for the consignment.”

Acting on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between NDLEA and NAFDAC on November 24, 2024, the Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), directed the immediate transfer of the drugs to NAFDAC for further testing and regulatory determination.

Under the leadership of ACGN A.I. Ahmad, the NDLEA Kano Command reaffirmed its commitment to joint operations and inter-agency cooperation in line with Marwa’s agenda.

Receiving the items, the NAFDAC coordinator commended NDLEA for upholding the MoU and pledged the agency’s readiness to collaborate on future investigations and regulatory actions.

“This joint action underscores both agencies’ determination to disrupt the illicit distribution of controlled pharmaceuticals and to protect public health and safety,” Maigatari added.

The NDLEA has repeatedly warned about the trafficking of Pregabalin, Tramadol, Codeine, and other controlled medicines, noting that their diversion into illicit markets poses serious threats to public health and national security.

The interception of the 450,000 Pregabalin capsules in Kano and their handover to NAFDAC, officials said, reflects the practical implementation of the inter-agency partnership.