Tinubus Reappointment Of Marwa Masterstroke For Nigerias Drug War Arewa -Think Tank

The Arewa Think Tank (ATT), a prominent non-partisan policy institute focused on security and development across Northern Nigeria, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for renewing the appointment of Brigadier-General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

In a statement issued at the weekend, the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, described Marwa’s reappointment as a strategic decision that guarantees continuity, stability, and a deeper consolidation of the NDLEA’s unprecedented achievements over the past four years.

Yakubu stated that the President’s decision reflects an unambiguous commitment to protecting Nigeria’s youth and strengthening national security in the ongoing battle against narcotics.

“By reappointing Brigadier-General Marwa, President Tinubu has demonstrated a clear-eyed, strategic focus on winning the war against drug abuse and trafficking. This is not merely a renewal of tenure; it is a powerful endorsement of a proven blueprint for success,” he said.

Marwa, who first assumed office in January 2021, is widely credited with transforming the NDLEA into a proactive, intelligence-led, and results-focused agency. During his first term, the NDLEA recorded historic milestones, including the arrest of over 73,000 suspects—among them high-profile drug barons—and the seizure of more than 15 million kilograms of assorted illicit substances.

The period also witnessed a sharp rise in successful prosecutions and the rollout of nationwide awareness campaigns targeting schools and communities, aimed at driving down demand and fostering a culture of prevention.

Yakubu expressed that the ATT is “particularly gratified” by the President’s decision to deepen these gains.

“General Marwa’s reappointment is a vote of confidence in his substantial efforts and a directive to press harder. We urge him to remain relentless in dismantling the syndicates of death that seek to destroy our youth. The fight is far from over, but with this sustained leadership, victory is inevitable,” he added.

Marwa’s renewed tenure, which runs until 2031, comes at a critical time as the NDLEA scales up its operations against domestic drug cartels and international trafficking networks. The ATT expressed optimism that the Agency will expand its impact under Marwa’s continued stewardship, paving the way for a safer and more secure Nigeria.