According to Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), the administration of President Bola Tinubu will keep bolstering the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) because of its strategic significance to Nigeria’s security framework.
Speaking at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Ribadu reportedly commissioned 46 new operational vehicles for deployment to critical commands and formations around the country.
“Under Marwa, NDLEA has become a result-oriented force addressing the grave threats posed by illicit drugs that undermine our national security, social stability, and public health,” he said, praising the organization’s Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), and his team for their unwavering dedication, discipline, and energy. Vehicle commissioning is not the only purpose of this event.
“Our fight is severely limited without the mobility to quickly reach danger points, intercept traffickers, and move resources where they are most needed.” There is a structural connection between drug trafficking and insecurity. Drug revenues are a major source of income for criminal gangs, as well as for armed groups and rebels. Numerous young Nigerians become addicted, which has terrible effects on families and communities, Ribadu stated in a press statement issued on Wednesday by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja.
The President’s steadfast support through financing, interagency collaboration, and policy alignment enabled the most recent milestone, he continued, adding that drug control is a top priority of the Renewed Hope Agenda and a cornerstone of our national security strategy.
He pledged full support from the Office of the National Security Adviser and collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Customs Service, and NAFDAC. “These vehicles will be deployed nationwide to amplify NDLEA’s operational presence, strengthen deterrence, and ensure that no trafficker escapes justice,” he said.
By saying, “The NDLEA is not only building lives, but also restoring dignity and shaping national policy,” Ribadu urged NDLEA officers to view the commissioning as a new mandate. This commissioning is an urgent call to action in the context of the epidemic. Act legally, use these resources sensibly, and maintain your vigilance.
Marwa Verifies 40,887 Arrests, Convictions, and Recoveries
Greeting guests, Gen. Marwa stated that the ceremony represents the ongoing endeavor to reestablish the Agency as a contemporary, effective, and esteemed organization and demonstrates the Tinubu administration’s unwavering dedication to empowering institutions at the forefront of public health and national security.
The NDLEA is now included in a select group of security and drug law enforcement organizations worldwide that are not only visible in their operations but also similarly respected and having an impact, he said, making today’s event a milestone.
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Marwa commended the President for his strategic and steadfast support, stating that the administration’s financial support under the Renewed Hope Agenda—which places a high priority on institutional reform, national stability, and the safety of every Nigerian life—made the car purchase feasible.
“We know from both intelligence and experience that drug abuse and trafficking are central to many security challenges in the country,” Marwa added, relating drug use to crime patterns. There is no denying the connection: illegal drugs are a major factor in cult violence, armed robbery, insurgency, and kidnapping. Drug trafficking gives criminals more confidence, removes moral inhibition, and substitutes recklessness for hope. Drug control cannot be ignored in any serious national security strategy, which is why we pursue our task with vigor and resolve, and the results are evident.
“40,887 drug offenders arrested (including 45 drug barons); over 5.5 million kilograms of various drugs seized; 704.445 hectares of cannabis farms destroyed; 8,682 convictions secured with asset forfeitures to the Federal Government; 24,173 drug users treated and rehabilitated across 30 rehab centers; and 8,698 War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities in schools, worship centers, workplaces, motor parks, and communities,” he cited as examples of the two-year results under the current administration.
The NDLEA’s response will continue to develop with better intelligence, stronger community participation, and, crucially, enhanced mobility and logistics, Marwa said, even as the illicit drug economy changes, taking advantage of vulnerable youngsters, porous borders, and occasionally complicit individuals.
Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, praised Marwa’s leadership and the President’s backing.
“All of our crimes have a very, very close connection to drug trafficking,” he stated.
They give criminals more confidence. And you find out that they are just regular mortals like you and me after the effect wears off. I’m quick to say, “Put NDLEA first,” if we are requested to display our report cards.
Gen. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defense Staff, described the purchase as “a significant boost to the Agency’s operational response capability and overall effectiveness.” He also stated that he thinks the expenditure would result in a stronger deterrent to those who aim to make money off of this damaging activity.
The vehicles passed rigorous due process, according to Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General, Bureau of Public Procurement, who commended the President for placing individuals like Marwa in top roles.
“In my opinion, NDLEA serves as a model for other government agencies. These cars have undergone standardization and are suitable for their intended use, Adedokun said.
The agency reports that 10 sedan cars were sent to 10 directorates while 38 SUVs were dispersed to Zonal Commands, Strategic Commands, and State Commands across the country.
It was understood that fifteen recently promoted Commanders of Narcotics (CN) received decorations as Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN) at the conclusion of the ceremony.
