The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has reaffirmed the commitment of President Tinubu’s administration to strengthening the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), citing its critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s national security.
Mallam Ribadu made the pledge in Abuja during the inauguration of 46 new vehicles for the agency’s strategic commands and formations.
In a statement, the Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Mr. Femi Babafemi, says, the NSA commended NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (rtd), and his team for their discipline, energy, and sustained results in the fight against illicit drugs, describing the menace as one of the most destabilizing threats to the nation’s stability and public well-being.
He urged NDLEA personnel to view the new resources as a renewed call to action, stressing the need for vigilance, adherence to the law, and the highest standards of professionalism.
“The NDLEA is not only building lives but restoring dignity and shaping national policy. Use these resources responsibly, act within the law, and remain vigilant”.
In his address of welcome, the NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) said the event symbolised the agency’s ongoing transformation into a modern, efficient, and respected institution, as well as the Tinubu administration’s consistent support for frontline security and public health agencies.
He noted that the vehicles were procured through direct fiscal backing from the federal government, underscoring its determination to tackle the root causes of insecurity and social disruption.
Highlighting the agency’s achievements under President Tinubu, Brig. Gen. Marwa, rtd, revealed that in the past two years, the NDLEA had arrested 40,887 drug offenders, including 45 major drug barons, leading to the seizure of over 5.5 million kilograms of assorted illicit substances.
The agency also destroyed more than 704 hectares of cannabis farms hidden deep within forests, secured 8,682 convictions, and recovered assets forfeited to the federal government.
According to the statement, on the rehabilitation front, 24,173 drug users had received treatment across the NDLEA’s 30 rehabilitation centres nationwide.
At the ceremony, 38 SUVs were handed over to zonal, strategic, and state commands, while 10 sedan cars went to the agency’s directorates.
The occasion also saw the decoration of 15 newly promoted Commanders of Narcotics with the rank of Assistant Commander General of Narcotics.
Reporting by Nosa Aituamen