National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), citing its strategic role in Nigeria’s national security framework.
Speaking at the commissioning of 48 operational vehicles at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, August 13, Ribadu commended NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) for transforming the agency into an effective force against illicit drugs, which he described as a major driver of insecurity, social instability, and public health crises.
According to Director, Media and Advocacy NDLEA Headquarters Abuja Femi Babafemi, Ribadu said the new vehicles will enhance NDLEA’s ability to intercept traffickers, respond swiftly to threats, and extend operational reach across the country. He stressed the strong link between drug trafficking and criminal activities such as insurgency, kidnapping, and armed robbery, underscoring the administration’s prioritisation of drug control under its Renewed Hope Agenda.
In his address, Marwa hailed the support of President Tinubu, describing the vehicle procurement as a milestone in repositioning the NDLEA as a modern, respected law enforcement agency. He noted that in the past two years, the agency has arrested 40,887 offenders, seized over 5.5 million kilograms of illicit substances, destroyed more than 700 hectares of cannabis farms, and rehabilitated over 24,000 drug users.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, and Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement Dr. Adebowale Adedokun also praised Marwa’s leadership and the agency’s results-driven approach.
Of the 48 vehicles commissioned, 38 SUVs were allocated to zonal, strategic, and state commands, while 10 sedans went to directorates. The event also saw 15 senior officers decorated with their new ranks.
