By Gabriel Ameh
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has decorated 15 senior officers with new ranks and honoured several others for exceptional service and dedication to Nigeria’s war against illicit drugs.
The ceremony, held at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja, formed part of NDLEA’s annual Awards and Commendation event designed to reward integrity, professionalism, and commitment among personnel.
Addressing the gathering, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), said the event symbolized the agency’s culture of celebrating excellence and motivating officers to sustain high performance.
“For the past four and a half years, we have upheld the tradition of hosting this commendation and award ceremony to appreciate and encourage officers who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty. This unique combination of promotions and awards makes today a momentous event,” Marwa stated.
He described the occasion as one dedicated to “honouring courage, celebrating professionalism, and recognizing the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who serve on the front lines of our nation’s war against illicit drugs.”
Highlighting NDLEA’s milestones under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Marwa disclosed that within the past 30 months, the agency has recorded 45,853 arrests, seized 8.5 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs, and secured 9,263 convictions. He further revealed that 26,613 drug users have received counselling and rehabilitation, while 9,848 sensitization campaigns have been conducted nationwide.
Marwa emphasized that the Command Awards and Commendations remain central to the agency’s motivational framework, noting that the system has significantly strengthened morale and boosted operational efficiency.
On emerging threats, the NDLEA boss decried the disturbing trend of drug-themed parties, citing a recent incident in Lagos where a nightclub openly promoted an event encouraging drug use.
“We intervened in a brazen move by a club owner who advertised a drug party. Let it be clear: possession or use of drugs in persons or premises is an illegality in Nigeria. We will not allow a culture of impunity to take root,” Marwa warned.
He commended the Lagos State Command for its swift and professional intervention, adding that legal proceedings have commenced against the club involved.
“We will make an example of this case to deter others. Club owners, hoteliers, and landlords must understand that their properties risk forfeiture if used for criminal drug activities,” he added.
Marwa also commended media organizations for their continuous support in promoting NDLEA’s anti-drug campaigns and public enlightenment initiatives. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting the nation from the scourge of illicit substances and sustaining its collaboration with stakeholders to build a drug-free Nigeria.
