Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang and the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), have pledged to reinforce their collaboration to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Plateau State.
The renewed commitment was made during a courtesy visit by Governor Mutfwang to the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday. Both leaders emphasized the importance of working together to address the drug crisis that has plagued the state.
During the meeting, Gen. Marwa commended Governor Mutfwang for his dedication to maintaining peace and security in Plateau State. He revealed that in the past two years, the NDLEA had seized a total of 6,975.6 kilograms of illicit drugs, including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, cannabis, and opioids in the state. These operations led to the arrest of 1,720 suspects and the conviction of 156, with trials for others still ongoing.
To further enhance the agency’s drug demand reduction efforts, Marwa urged the governor to support the establishment of a standard rehabilitation center and activate drug control committees at the state, local government, and community levels. He also recommended the adoption of drug testing policies in schools, homes, and communities across Plateau State.
Governor Mutfwang praised Marwa’s leadership in revitalizing the NDLEA since taking over in 2021. “We’ve followed keenly your performance, and since your leadership began, the NDLEA has operated with more vigor and determination. Those profiting from illicit drugs have found it increasingly difficult,” Mutfwang remarked.
The governor reiterated Plateau State’s commitment to curbing substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking, emphasizing the need to address both the supply and demand sides of the issue. “We are genuinely concerned about the impact of substance abuse in our state and are seeking stronger collaboration with the NDLEA. We are willing to do more, share information and intelligence, and work together to reduce this menace to its barest minimum,” he stated.
The meeting concluded with both leaders expressing optimism about the future of their partnership in the ongoing fight against drug-related crimes in Plateau State.
