The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has reaffirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration will continue to strengthen the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) because of its strategic role in Nigeria’s national security.
Ribadu made the remark on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the commissioning of 48 new operational vehicles at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja. He commended the Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), for his discipline, commitment, and transformative leadership, which has turned the Agency into a results-driven force against illicit drugs.
“The link between drug trafficking and insecurity is systemic. Criminal gangs and insurgents fund their activities through drug profits, while countless young Nigerians fall victim to addiction. This is why the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu prioritises drug control as a pillar of our national security strategy,” Ribadu said.
Marwa described the procurement as a milestone in repositioning the NDLEA and acknowledged the President’s support. He noted that in the past two years, the Agency has arrested 40,887 drug offenders, including 45 barons, seized over 5.5 million kilograms of illicit substances, destroyed 704.445 hectares of cannabis farms, and secured 8,682 convictions.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), commended the President’s backing and Marwa’s leadership, while the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, said the vehicles would enhance NDLEA’s operational capacity nationwide.
Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, lauded NDLEA for adhering to due process in the vehicle acquisition.
Of the 48 vehicles commissioned, 38 SUVs were distributed to Zonal, Strategic, and State Commands, while 10 sedans went to NDLEA directorates. The ceremony also saw 15 newly promoted officers decorated with the rank of Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN).
