The Commander, Headquarters Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North-East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Brigadier General Edet Effiong, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to strengthening inter-agency collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking in Yobe State.
The Commander stated this on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, when he received the State Commander, NDLEA Yobe State Command, Commander of Narcotics Mustapha Mannir, who paid a courtesy visit to Sector 2 Headquarters in Damaturu.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Absolom Kandala Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations Headquarters Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI Damaturu said Brigadier General Effiong commended the NDLEA for its sustained efforts in combating drug-related offences and stressed the importance of collective action among security agencies to safeguard communities and protect vulnerable populations, particularly youths.
As part of the Sector’s preventive approach to security, the Commander announced plans to organise drug abuse awareness lectures in schools across Damaturu. The initiative, to be implemented in collaboration with the NDLEA, educators and community leaders, is aimed at educating young people on the dangers of substance abuse, promoting responsible choices and strengthening community resilience. He also proposed regular joint sensitisation campaigns, workshops and outreach programmes, while encouraging the NDLEA to provide technical support and resource persons for the initiative.
Responding, Commander Mannir commended the Nigerian Army for its vital role in national security and described the visit as an opportunity to enhance familiarity, cooperation and institutional synergy. He emphasised that the fight against drug abuse and trafficking requires sustained collaboration, including intelligence sharing, joint operations and mutual support. He assured the Sector of the NDLEA’s readiness to work closely with the Nigerian Army towards protecting communities, safeguarding the youth and promoting stability across the state.
In a related development, Headquarters Sector 2, in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Damaturu, commenced a three-day First Aid Training programme for officers and soldiers within the Sector’s Area of Responsibility. The training is designed to enhance troops’ capacity to provide immediate and appropriate first aid during emergencies, particularly in frontline operational environments, thereby strengthening their overall preparedness and resilience.
Highlights of the NDLEA courtesy visit included the signing of the visitors’ book, presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, while the First Aid Training underscores the Sector’s continued focus on strengthening both inter-agency partnerships and the operational readiness of its personnel.
