NDLEA’s Successes in Drug Control Justify Global Support – Marwa
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman and Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has highlighted the agency’s operational successes in combating drug trafficking and abuse, emphasizing that these accomplishments justify the continued support from the United States and other international partners.
Speaking at the commissioning of a central exhibit office donated by the U.S. government at the NDLEA’s headquarters annex in Ikoyi, Lagos, Marwa expressed his gratitude for the U.S. government’s assistance, which has significantly enhanced NDLEA’s capabilities. The office will aid in the efficient and secure handling of evidence critical to successful drug prosecutions. Marwa stressed that while there have been significant achievements, the fight against drug trafficking and abuse remains ongoing.
In 2024, the NDLEA seized over 2.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs and arrested more than 18,500 drug trafficking offenders. Additionally, over 3,250 convictions were secured, including 10 drug barons, and over 220 hectares of cannabis farms were destroyed. The agency also conducted over 3,000 sensitization programs nationwide, supporting drug demand reduction efforts.
Despite these successes, Marwa called for continued support from the U.S. and other international partners, particularly in areas such as capacity building, advanced surveillance, intelligence sharing, and logistical support. He reiterated the importance of partnerships in addressing the dynamic and multifaceted challenges of the drug trade.
The U.S. Consul General, Ms. Jo Ellen Georg, highlighted the strong relationship between Nigeria and the U.S., emphasizing shared objectives in fighting drug trafficking and crime. She commended Marwa’s leadership and the ongoing collaboration between the U.S. and NDLEA, noting recent investments in modernizing NDLEA’s forensic capabilities and supporting advanced drug analysis.
This partnership reflects a long-standing commitment to countering illicit drug flows and enhancing security, benefiting both Nigeria and the U.S. as they work together to combat drug-related crimes.
