Drug War: Federal Gov’t Unveils 48 Operational Vehicles For NDLEA

The federal government has unveiled 48 new vehicles for the operations of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Speaking at the event in Abuja on Wednesday, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, said that the administration of President BolaTinubu will continue to strengthen the NDLEA because of its strategic value to the success of the country’s national security architecture.

According to him, “I commend the NDLEA chairman, General Mohamed Marwa, for his discipline, commitment, and transformative leadership. Under his watch, 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.

“The link between drug trafficking and insecurity is systemic. Criminal gangs thrive on drug profits. Insurgents and armed groups fund their activities with it. Countless young Nigerians fall victim to addiction, with devastating consequences for families and communities. This is why the renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President Bola Tinubu prioritizes drug control as a pillar of our national security strategy. The president’s unwavering support through funding, inter-agency cooperation, and policy alignment has directly enabled today’s milestone.

“These vehicles will be deployed nationwide to amplify NDLEA’s operational presence, strengthen deterrence, and ensure that no trafficker escapes justice. As the lead agency for drug control, arrest, seizure, and investigation and prosecution, NDLEA will continue to receive the full backing of the Office of National Security Adviser, which will also coordinate its efforts with other security and regulatory agencies, including the National Police Force, Nigerian Customs Service, NAFDAC.”

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Also, the NDLEA chairman, Brig. Gen. BUBA Marwa (rtd), while speaking, said the event was symbolic of the continuous effort to reposition the agency as a modern, efficient and respected organization as well as a reflection of the sustained commitment of the President Tinubu’s administration to equipping institutions that stand on the front line of the country’s national security and public health.

He stated that, “Today’s event is a milestone, as NDLEA is now counted among a distinguished group of security and drug law enforcement agencies around the world that are not only visible in their operations but equally respected and making impacts.”

He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering and strategic support for the agency, noting that, “The procurement of these vehicles was made possible by the fiscal backing of this administration, which continues to demonstrate strong resolve in addressing the root causes of insecurity and social dislocation. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the President has prioritised national stability, institutional reform and the safety of every Nigerian life. That trust motivates us to deliver even more.”

In his remarks, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, commended President Tinubu for making the achievements recorded by the leadership of Marwa at the NDLEA in the past two years possible. According to him, “Without an understanding President, it would be very difficult to have this type of gathering today. So, my first appreciation goes to him. There is a very, very close nexus between drug trafficking and all the crimes that we have.

“The chairman has chronicled some of the effects of these illicit drugs. They embolden criminals. And when the thing wears off, then you discover that they are just ordinary mortals like you and I. And that is why attention ought to be given to this fight against illicit drugs. And when I follow NDLEA activities; the arrests, the fights they put on, you know, I’m always very happy. The credit, of course, goes to the leadership by Gen Marwa. This is not your first time of doing this. You have done it elsewhere and you are doing it again. I’m always very pleased.”

Also speaking, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, said “the NDLEA has consistently demonstrated courage, professionalism and resilience in confronting the threats posed by drugs and substance abuse in very challenging circumstances.”