New NDLEA Commander Unveils Fresh Strategy to Intensify Anti-Drug Operations in Ondo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has appointed Commander of Narcotics, Folayemi Adeyemo Gabriel, as the new head of its Ondo State Command, with a promise to strengthen the agency’s campaign against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse.

Speaking after taking over leadership of the command, Adeyemo said his administration would consolidate on the achievements of previous commanders while introducing modern intelligence-driven approaches to tackle emerging drug-related crimes across the state.

The new state commander, who joined the NDLEA in 1997, described his appointment as another opportunity to contribute to the agency’s mission after nearly three decades of service.

He recalled that he was enlisted into the anti-narcotics agency after successfully completing a six-month basic training programme in Jos as part of Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics Course 6.

Adeyemo’s educational journey began at Salvation Army Primary School in Supare Akoko, Ondo State, before proceeding to Ayegunle High School. He later obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). Before joining the NDLEA, he worked with a transport consultancy company in Lagos after completing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

Over the course of his career, the new commander has served in several commands across the country, including Makurdi, Lokoja, Abeokuta, Ogbomosho, Ibadan, Niger State, Anambra, Apapa, Kebbi, Ekiti and the Akure Zonal Command.

He noted that one of his earliest accomplishments was the establishment of a new NDLEA Area Command during his posting to Makurdi, despite the operational challenges at the time.

Adeyemo also highlighted his involvement in major drug seizures carried out in locations such as Ijebu-Ode and Niger State, saying the successful operations earned him commendations and accelerated promotion within the agency.

Before assuming office in Ondo, he served as the Deputy Zonal Commander of NDLEA Zone 10 in Akure following his promotion to the rank of Commander of Narcotics. He officially became the Ondo State Commander on July 24, 2026.

Outlining his priorities, Adeyemo said the command would adopt improved operational tactics to stay ahead of criminal networks, stressing that drug traffickers continually evolve their methods.

According to him, greater emphasis will be placed on intelligence gathering and the deployment of technology to monitor and disrupt drug trafficking activities, particularly those conducted through digital platforms.

He explained that the NDLEA has continued to equip its personnel with advanced training in cyber surveillance and digital intelligence under the leadership of the agency’s Chairman and Chief Executive, enabling officers to effectively respond to changing patterns of drug crimes.

“We will continue to improve our operational strategies because criminal networks are constantly changing their tactics. Our goal is to identify, infiltrate and dismantle these networks through intelligence and technology,” he said.

Adeyemo reaffirmed the commitment of the Ondo State Command to protecting residents from the dangers of illicit drugs through sustained enforcement operations, stronger intelligence gathering, public awareness campaigns and closer collaboration with relevant stakeholders.