In a major blow to international drug trafficking networks, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says its operatives have arrested 58-year-old fugitive drug lord Uzoma Valentine Ilomuanya, who had been on the run from Nigerian and British authorities for over 15 years.
Femi Babafemi, NDLEA spokesperson, said in a statement on Wednesday that Ilomuanya was arrested on Monday, 23rd February 2026, in Lagos during a high-stakes operation by the agency’s special operations unit, ending a long-standing cat-and-mouse chase across Nigeria and the United Kingdom (UK).
Babafemi said fugitive has a history of serious drug-related crimes, noting that he was first arrested in February 2003 and convicted in the UK for drug trafficking, receiving a nine-year sentence.
“He served only two years before being released on appeal. In July 2011, he was arrested again in the UK for similar offences, granted administrative bail, and subsequently fled to Nigeria,” the NDLEA spokesperson said.
“In Nigeria, Ilomuanya continued his illicit activities. In November 2018, NDLEA operatives discovered two clandestine methamphetamine laboratories at his homes in Imo State and Lagos, seizing 77.960 kilograms of methamphetamine and production equipment.
“He was charged in the federal high court, Lagos, but jumped bail and remained at large until this week.”
Babafemi said Buba Marwa, NDLEA chairman, described the arrest as a “significant breakthrough in the Agency’s relentless fight against drug cartels.”
“Whether you jump bail in London or set up clandestine labs in your village, the long arm of the NDLEA will eventually catch up with those who choose to undermine the health, security, and future of our nation,” Marwa said.
He further stressed Nigeria’s commitment to international collaboration to prevent the country from being a sanctuary for global drug lords and commended the Special Operations Unit for their professionalism, resilience, and diligence in tracking down Ilomuanya.
The arrest of Uzoma Ilomuanya is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts to dismantle organized drug trafficking networks operating within Nigeria, sending a clear warning to criminals attempting to exploit cross-border jurisdictions.
