Abuja: The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported significant achievements in its operations over the past 30 months, which include the arrest of 45,853 suspects, the seizure of 8.5 million kilograms of drugs, and 9,263 convictions.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, highlighted these accomplishments during an awards and commendation ceremony for agency personnel in Abuja. Marwa praised the operatives for intensifying efforts against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking during the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Marwa awarded commendation letters and accolades to 220 personnel for exemplary performance, while also promoting 15 senior officers. He emphasized the dedication of those who have shown integrity and courage in the face of danger and temptation. The efforts have led to the counseling and rehabilitation of 26,613 drug users and the execution of 9,848 War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities nationwide.
Marwa acknowledged the monumental challenge posed by drug abuse and trafficking, stressing the need for continued efforts to combat these issues, which threaten national security and economic stability. He reiterated the importance of the agency's reward system in maintaining high morale and motivation among the workforce.
The NDLEA Chairman also expressed gratitude to local and international partners, including UNODC, INL, the UK Border Force, and other governments, as well as media partners and national legislative committees, for their support. Marwa stressed the importance of adhering to standard operating procedures to ensure the protection of NDLEA personnel while working to dismantle drug cartels.