Because the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) is strategically important to Nigeria’s security architecture, President Bola Tinubu’s administration will continue to strengthen it, according to Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA).
Speaking on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, Ribadu reportedly commissioned 46 new operational vehicles that will be sent to strategic 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 commended the organization’s Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), and his team for their unwavering dedication, discipline, and energy. Commissioning cars is not the only purpose of this event.
Our fight is severely limited if we are unable to transfer resources where they are most needed, intercept traffickers, and quickly reach danger locations. There is a structural connection between drug trafficking and insecurity. Profits from drugs are a major source of income for criminal gangs, as well as for armed groups and insurgents. Ribadu stated in a press statement issued on Wednesday by Femi Babafemi, Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, that “many young Nigerians become addicted, with disastrous repercussions for families and communities.”
“The Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes drug control as a pillar of our national security strategy,” he continued, praising the President’s steadfast support through financing, interagency collaboration, and policy alignment for making the most recent milestone possible.
He promised full support from the Office of the National Security Adviser and coordination 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.
“The NDLEA is not only building lives, but also restoring dignity and shaping national policy,” Ribadu said, challenging NDLEA officers to view the commissioning as a new mandate. This commissioning is a call to action in the context of the epidemic. Be cautious, follow the law, and make responsible use of these resources.
Marwa confirms 40,887 suspects were arrested, recovered, and found guilty.
In welcoming 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.
“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 said.
Marwa thanked 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 possible.
Marwa made the following statement, connecting drug use to crime trends: “We know from both intelligence and experience that drug abuse and trafficking are central to many security challenges in the country.” There is no denying the connection: illegal narcotics are a major factor in cult violence, armed robbery, insurgency, and kidnapping. Trafficking in drugs gives offenders more confidence, removes moral inhibition, and substitutes recklessness for hope. Drug control is an essential component of any serious national security strategy, which is why we pursue our mandate with vigor and resolve, and the effects are evident.
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He listed two-year results under the current administration, including: “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.”
As the illegal drug trade develops, taking advantage of young people who are at risk, porous borders, and occasionally complicit parties, Marwa stated that the NDLEA’s reaction will continue to change with increased information, more active community involvement, and—most importantly—better mobility and logistics.
Justice Minister and Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, praised Marwa’s leadership and the President’s backing.
“Drug trafficking is closely linked to all of our crimes,” he stated.
“They give criminals more confidence. You learn that they are simply regular mortals like you and me after the effect wears off. I’m always quick to remark, “Put NDLEA first,” whenever we are requested to display our report cards.
The acquisition was described as “a significant boost to the Agency’s operational response capability and overall effectiveness” by Chief of Defense Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, who also stated that he thinks the expenditure will result in a stronger deterrent to those who aim to profit from this harmful trade.
The vehicles passed stringent 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 automobiles have undergone standardization and are suitable for their intended use, Adedokun said.
The agency claims that 10 sedan cars were sent to 10 directorates and 38 SUVs were given to Zonal Commands, Strategic Commands, and State Commands across the country.
It was understood that 15 recently promoted Commanders of Narcotics (CN) received decorations as Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN) at the ceremony’s conclusion.
