- Inspects Yola barracks project, says first set of historic personnel accommodation almost ready for commissioning
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) has expressed the appreciation of officers and men of the anti-narcotic agency to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continuous support for the on-going efforts to curb the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the country.
In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, Marwa expressed these sentiments during a briefing with journalists while assessing the facilities at the NDLEA barracks, nearing completion for commissioning in Yola, Adamawa State. He remarked, “We express our appreciation for the project and acknowledge the continuum in governance. President Buhari recognized the significance of issues concerning the security and welfare of our staff. Despite their efforts in apprehending, prosecuting, and combating criminals, they often find themselves confronting the same threats due to their proximity. However, with the provision of barracks for our personnel, both President Buhari and now President Tinubu have demonstrated unwavering dedication and support, for which we are deeply grateful.”
In his commendation of the quality and standard of work accomplished at the barracks, Marwa added, “Consultants and contractors have exhibited commendable performance, ensuring high standards of construction, meticulous monitoring, employment of top-grade materials, and impeccable design, as evident. We stand at 95% completion. With the grace of Allah, we anticipate a full launch of this initial phase before the mid-year. Our aim is to initially establish a barracks in each of the six geopolitical zones, fostering equity and balance. In the subsequent years, we aspire for the extension of such facilities to all 36 state commands, the Federal Capital Territory, and Special Area commands. Our officers are enthused and eager to contribute further, viewing this development as a testament to their commendable efforts, motivating them to excel further.”
Addressing inquiries regarding the agency’s approach beyond apprehensions, seizures, and prosecutions to tackle drug trafficking, Marwa emphasized the commitment to reducing the demand for illicit substances by collaborating with various stakeholders to raise awareness and address underlying causes of substance abuse.
“In 2018, the Presidential Advisory Committee for the Elimination of Drug Abuse (PACEDA) was established, which I had the privilege of chairing. Our primary task involved identifying the root causes of drug abuse and trafficking and presenting recommendations, which we diligently executed. Notably, poverty emerged as a significant predisposing factor to drug use across societies. It is imperative to recognize that this issue extends beyond Nigeria’s borders, affecting the global community. Consequently, while pursuing immediate relief measures, it is essential to address poverty alleviation efforts comprehensively. President Tinubu’s commitment to uplifting Nigerians from poverty is evident, and NDLEA, along with other key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Health and NAFDAC, is actively engaged in demand reduction initiatives.”
Marwa underscored the holistic nature of the fight against drug abuse, emphasizing the collective responsibility that transcends NDLEA’s mandate. “The media, religious institutions, community leaders, educators, NGOs, traditional authorities, women’s and youth organizations—all must collaborate with security agencies to eradicate drug abuse from our society.”
He hinted at an upcoming national briefing regarding a significant seizure and arrests made in ongoing operations to dismantle drug cartels operating across Nigeria’s borders with Africa, Europe, and America.
