The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), has decorated 15 senior officers with new ranks and honoured several others for their exceptional performance and dedication to the agency’s ongoing fight against illicit drugs in Nigeria.
Speaking at the annual NDLEA Awards and Commendation Ceremony held today, Marwa said the event was organized to celebrate excellence, integrity, and selfless service among officers who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty.
“For the past four and a half years, we have upheld the tradition of hosting this commendation and award ceremony to appreciate and encourage our officers who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty. As such, this unique combination of promotions and awards makes today a momentous event,” Marwa stated.
The NDLEA boss described the occasion as one dedicated to “honouring courage, celebrating professionalism, and recognizing the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who serve on the front lines of our nation’s war against illicit drugs.”
Highlighting the agency’s achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Marwa disclosed that in the past 30 months, NDLEA has recorded **45,853 arrests**, seized **8.5 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs**, and secured **9,263 convictions**. He further noted that **26,613 drug users** have undergone counselling and rehabilitation, while **9,848 sensitization campaigns** have been conducted nationwide.
Marwa reiterated that the Command Awards and Commendations remain a key motivation tool for officers, stressing that the agency’s reward system has strengthened morale and improved overall performance.
On emerging threats, the NDLEA chairman condemned the growing trend of drug-themed parties, referencing a recent incident in Lagos where a nightclub owner promoted an event openly encouraging drug use.
“We intervened in a brazen move by a club owner who advertised a drug party. Let it be clear: possession or use of drugs in persons or premises is an illegality in Nigeria. We will not allow a culture of impunity to take root,” Marwa warned.
He commended the Lagos State Command for its professional handling of the case and revealed that legal actions have commenced against the club involved. “We will make an example of this case to deter others. Club owners, hoteliers, and landlords must understand that their properties risk forfeiture if used for criminal drug activities,” he added.
Marwa also expressed gratitude to media partners for their sustained collaboration in amplifying the agency’s anti-drug campaigns and public enlightenment efforts, reaffirming NDLEA’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria from the dangers of illicit drugs.
