Ribadu Vows Tinubu Will Keep Strengthening NDLEA to Combat Drug-Fueled Crime

The administration of President Bola Tinubu is set to continue strengthening the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), citing its critical role in Nigeria’s national security framework. This assurance was made by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, during the commissioning of 46 new vehicles at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja.

Ribadu praised NDLEA Chairman Brig Gen Mohamed Marwa (rtd) and his team for their unwavering commitment to transforming the agency into a results-driven force against the threats posed by illicit drugs. He emphasized that the vehicles would enhance operational mobility, allowing the agency to respond swiftly to criminal activities and support national security objectives.

“The link between drug trafficking and insecurity is systemic,” Ribadu said. “Criminal gangs and armed groups often fund their activities through illicit drugs, and countless young Nigerians fall victim to addiction, with devastating effects on families and communities. President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes drug control as a pillar of our national security strategy.”

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, also commended the President for supporting NDLEA’s initiatives and highlighted the close connection between drug trafficking and other criminal activities. He lauded the agency’s leadership under Marwa for boosting staff morale and achieving significant operational results.

NDLEA Chairman Marwa described the commissioning as a reflection of the agency’s modernization and the administration’s commitment to national security and public health. Under his leadership, NDLEA has, in two years, arrested over 40,000 drug offenders, seized more than 5.5 million kilograms of illicit substances, destroyed 704 hectares of cannabis farms, and secured the conviction of 8,682 traffickers. Additionally, the agency has treated over 24,000 drug users and conducted nearly 9,000 awareness campaigns across Nigeria.

Marwa stressed that the evolving nature of the illicit drug economy requires continuous adaptation, stronger intelligence, community engagement, and improved logistics. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, welcomed the vehicle procurement as a vital boost to NDLEA’s operational effectiveness, while the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Adebowale Adedokun, affirmed the process’s transparency and compliance with standards.

A total of 38 SUVs were allocated to zonal and state commands, with 10 sedans assigned to various directorates. The ceremony also featured the promotion of 15 Commanders of Narcotics to Assistant Commander General of Narcotics, highlighting the agency’s dedication to professional growth and operational excellence.