Abuja: The Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, has issued a stern warning to drug barons, traffickers, and their cartels to cease their criminal activities or prepare for more stringent measures during his second tenure. Marwa made this declaration while addressing the jubilant management staff, officers, men, and women of the agency, who gathered to welcome him at its National Headquarters in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Marwa was reappointed by President Bola Tinubu for a second five-year term on Friday. In a statement released by the NDLEA spokesman, Mr. Femi Babafemi in Abuja, Marwa emphasized that his upcoming tenure would be extremely challenging for those who refuse to abandon the illicit drug trade. He expressed gratitude to the president for acknowledging the ongoing efforts against substance abuse and drug trafficking in the nation.
Marwa expressed his surprise and gratitude upon returning from juma’at service to find the agency’s personnel celebrating his reappointment. He took the opportunity to thank the Almighty God and President Tinubu for the recognition of their collective efforts and the renewed mandate to combat drug abuse and trafficking. He also acknowledged the unwavering support from the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun.
The NDLEA boss also extended his appreciation to all local and international partners who continue to collaborate with Nigeria in its fight against illicit substances. He issued a stark warning to drug cartels, promising that his second tenure would be extremely difficult for them, with a commitment that “drugs shall not pass, in or out or within Nigeria.”
Reaffirming the agency’s dedication to President Tinubu’s mandate, Marwa assured that they would continue to operate in accordance with the agency’s Act. He recalled his inaugural speech, emphasizing that the NDLEA would instill fear in drug cartels, which he stated is just the beginning.
Marwa urged those involved in illicit drugs and cannabis cultivation to seek alternative businesses. Highlighting the Alternative Development Unit, he encouraged those engaged in illicit activities, particularly cannabis growers, to desist and collaborate with the agency. He assured support for the cultivation of legitimate crops, warning that those who refuse will face the full force of the law, with arrests, seizures, and asset confiscation.
The NDLEA Chairman also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to its drug demand reduction efforts, rededicating efforts towards prevention, sensitization, counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation in their 30 rehabilitation centers. He announced plans for seven additional centers under the 2025 budget, ensuring each state has its own facility, with full collaboration from the Minister of Health.
Marwa commended the Minister of Education for accepting the agency’s recommendation for drug tests for students upon admission to tertiary institutions, providing help to those identified as involved before it escalates to addiction.