The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), highlighted the agency’s significant strides in combating drug trafficking in 2024, justifying the support from international partners, including the U.S. government.
Speaking at the commissioning of a central exhibit office donated by the U.S. government at NDLEA’s Lagos headquarters on January 7, 2025, Marwa emphasized that the agency’s operational successes in drug supply and demand reduction efforts validate the ongoing support from global partners.
In 2024, the NDLEA arrested over 18,500 offenders and seized more than 2.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs. The agency also secured 3,250 convictions, including 10 drug barons, and destroyed 220 hectares of cannabis farms. Additionally, over 8,200 individuals were counseled and rehabilitated.
Marwa commended the U.S. government for enhancing the NDLEA’s operational framework through donations and continuous support. He called for further collaboration, particularly in capacity building, advanced technology, intelligence sharing, and logistics.
The U.S. acting Consul General, Ms. Jo Ellen Georg, praised Marwa’s leadership and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fight against drug trafficking. The newly donated office space and previous investments in the NDLEA’s forensic laboratory exemplify the robust partnership between the two nations in combating narcotics.
The NDLEA remains dedicated to protecting lives and promoting a safer society, with Marwa pledging transparency and effective utilization of resources to inspire confidence and resilience within the agency.
