The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ogun State Command, has warned intending pilgrims to the 2026 Hajj to be vigilant and avoid falling victim to tactics used by drug traffickers who plant illicit substances in travellers’ luggage.

The State Commander of NDLEA, Tijani Rabe, gave the warning while receiving the Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (OGMPWB), Ajibola Taiwo, and his management team at the agency’s headquarters in Abeokuta.

Rabe reaffirmed the NDLEA’s commitment to sustaining its collaboration with the OGMPWB in sensitising intending pilgrims on the dangers and consequences of drug trafficking.

He stressed the need for continuous education on the tricks employed by traffickers, noting that Nigeria’s international image suffers whenever a pilgrim is caught with illicit substances.

He said the agency would integrate the Pilgrims Board into its sensitisation programmes to expose new smuggling methods and strengthen preventive awareness among travellers.

“The partnership between NDLEA and the Pilgrims Welfare Board is crucial to ensuring that intending pilgrims are well informed about drug laws in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia,” Rabe stated.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the OGMPWB, Ajibola Taiwo, commended the NDLEA for its consistent support in enlightening pilgrims over the years.

He noted that preparations for the 2026 Hajj had already commenced and urged the agency to remain actively involved in educating pilgrims ahead of the exercise.

“As a major stakeholder in Hajj operations, it is important that NDLEA is fully briefed about the 2026 itinerary and prepared to engage our pilgrims on drug-related issues,” Taiwo added.