The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), has reiterated his unwavering commitment to the welfare of NDLEA officers, emphasizing that their physical and mental well-being remains a top priority. This, he noted, is essential to effectively combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the country.
Marwa made this statement on Monday during the commissioning of a state-of-the-art fitness center at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja. He underscored that the establishment of the facility reflects his dedication to enhancing the health, strength, and overall well-being of NDLEA personnel, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the fitness center, Marwa stressed that maintaining peak physical and mental fitness is critical for officers tasked with the complex and demanding responsibilities of tackling drug-related crimes. “The fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking is not merely a battle of intelligence and strategy—it demands physical endurance, agility, and resilience,” he stated. “Our work places extraordinary demands on our bodies and minds, from long hours of surveillance and enforcement operations to high-risk engagements. We must always be in top form to protect society from the dangers of illicit drugs.”
Marwa emphasized that regular exercise should be regarded as a necessity rather than a luxury, noting that a physically fit officer is better equipped to handle stress, respond swiftly in the field, and make sound decisions under pressure. He added that physical fitness also enhances overall health, reduces the risk of lifestyle-related diseases, and sharpens mental acuity. “This fitness center is more than just a gym; it is an investment in our most valuable asset—our people,” he said. “We plan to replicate similar facilities across zonal and state commands as funds become available. I urge all NDLEA personnel in Abuja to make full use of this facility. Let it not just be a building, but a place of daily transformation where we strengthen both our bodies and our resolve to serve with excellence.”
Marwa concluded by encouraging officers to view the commissioning of the fitness center as a reminder of the physical, mental, and professional demands of their work. “As we inaugurate this center today, let it serve as a constant reminder that our work requires the best version of ourselves—physically, mentally, and professionally. Together, let us continue to build an NDLEA that is strong, resilient, and ever-ready to fulfill its mandate.”
