February 18, (THEWILL) – On Tuesday, the Federal Government commissioned the first barracks that will provide office and residential accommodation for personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
This is coming 35 years after the establishment of the anti-narcotics agency.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Yola, Adamawa state, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said the facility, which includes modern administrative offices, detention facilities, secure storage, and residential accommodations, is not just a physical structure but a critical investment in human capital and a testament to President Bola Tinubu administration’s resolve to create an environment where NDLEA officers and their families can live and thrive with dignity and security.
The AGF said, “The role of NDLEA in our society cannot be overstated. The fight against drug abuse is a fight for our nation’s future. It is a battle to protect our youth from the devastating effects of substance abuse and to rid our communities of the violence and destruction that often accompany the illegal drug trade. This barracks, therefore, is more than a place of residence; it is a fortress of resilience and a beacon of hope for our nation’s future.
“I would like to reassure you of my continued commitment to supporting the work that you do. This is based on my personal conviction of the intersection between justice and law enforcement. This facility is a critical component of the rule of law, ensuring that those who are tasked with upholding our laws are protected, empowered, and equipped to carry out their duties. It reinforces the principle that justice begins with those who enforce it, and it is our collective responsibility to provide them with necessary resources to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
“I urge the officers who will call this facility home to remain steadfast in their service to their motherland. The nation looks to you, not only as enforcers of the law but as protectors of our shared hope for a safer, healthier society. This investment in your welfare is a call to higher responsibility, one that requires unwavering dedication and resolute commitment. This day should serve as more than the commissioning of a physical structure. It should be a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to building a society where every citizen can thrive, free from the perils of drug abuse and the destruction it brings. Together, through concerted effort and unwavering determination, we will secure the promise of a better and brighter Nigeria for all.”
The AGF acknowledged former President Muhammadu Buhari for approving the project and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring its completion while also appreciating Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their support.
“I must acknowledge the unwavering support of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, under whose leadership this commissioning is taking place. His steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law, empowering institutions, and ensuring that critical agencies like the NDLEA have the resources they need to succeed is well known and evident in today’s event. Additionally, the foundational contributions of the previous administration, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, must also be recognised, as it was during his tenure that this initiative was approved and set in motion.
“This project, which has been conceptualised and driven by Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), the dynamic Chairman and Chief Executive of NDLEA, is a reflection of the forward-thinking leadership that has defined his tenure in the Agency. I am proud to note that General Marwa has revitalised the operational framework of NDLEA, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a steadfast commitment to public service delivery.
“The establishment of this barracks is a long-awaited yet timely endeavour. It aligns perfectly with the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which seeks to rebuild every facet of the Nigerian state. The agenda includes strengthening our public services and fortifying our security apparatus. NDLEA is a critical component in this framework, tasked with tackling the menace of illicit drugs and ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians and non-Nigerians alike”, he added.
In his remarks, Marwa emphasised the significance of the project to the safety of the Agency’s personnel.
“This year marks the 35th anniversary of NDLEA. Over the years, the absence of dedicated accommodation for our officers has led to challenges, including exposure to risks for them and their families. Tragically, quite a number of our personnel have been trailed to their houses and murdered. Such incidents emphasise the urgency of providing secure housing for our personnel.
“Mr President, your administration’s unwavering commitment to improving security, strengthening institutions, and ensuring the welfare of law enforcement personnel inspires us all. We are thankful for being beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Agenda”, he stated.
Speaking on the project, he added, “This facility, situated on an 18-hectare site in Kwanan Waya, reflects our commitment to the safety, welfare, and operational efficiency of our personnel. The Yola Barracks include office structures, accommodation and auxiliary facilities. The office structures consist of a modern administrative building for the NDLEA Adamawa State Command, a detention facility, a state-of-the-art exhibit room, watchtowers, and operational pavilions. The accommodation includes lodges for the state and zonal commanders, 80 one-bedroom terrace flats, 120 two-bedroom semi-detached flats, and 60 three-bedroom semi-detached flats.
“The auxiliary facilities comprised enhanced security features, a generator house for uninterrupted power supply, parking spaces, a parade ground, a service bay, and a perimeter fence. This state-of-the-art facility is a testament to our resolve to win the fight against drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria. It symbolises our commitment to the welfare of our personnel and serves as a bold statement of our determination to build a safer nation.”
In his message at the occasion, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri commended President Tinubu, Marwa and other stakeholders for their foresight, vision, and commitment to the project.
“This barracks is a testament of their unwavering dedication to safeguarding our nation and its people, particularly our youth, who are our valuable assets and leaders of tomorrow from the many illicit drugs. The establishment of this facility is not merely about bricks and mortar. It is about fortifying our determination and collective resolve to protect our prosperity from the threat of illicit drugs towards peace and stability”, he said.
Representing the National Security Adviser, AIG Rex Dundun, praised NDLEA’s efforts and urged personnel to maintain professionalism and resilience.
“The NDLEA plays a critical role in safeguarding our national security agencies to thrive. The NDLEA plays a critical role in safeguarding our nation’s health, safety and well-being by combating the menace of drug trafficking and abuse. I laud the NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and his management team for their tireless efforts in leading the charge against drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria.
“Your dedication and sacrifice have not gone unnoticed. To the personnel of NDLEA, I urge you to continue demonstrating exceptional courage, resilience and professionalism in the discharge of your duties. This new facility is a testament to the government’s appreciation of your hard work and commitment to serving our great nation”, Ribadu added.
Also speaking, Senate Committee Chairman on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, noted that “the job of the officers and operatives in the NDLEA requires a mix of humanity, detection and enforcement, which requires the provision of adequate motivation for the workforce.
“Hence, this project will collectively, among other things, build a seamless organisation which is people-centred, motivating the workforce, creating job satisfaction, and also addressing service delivery challenges.”
House of Reps Committee Chairman on Narcotic Drugs, Abass Adigun, represented by the deputy chairman of the committee, Hon. Idris Dankawu, reaffirmed their commitment to better funding and improving working conditions for the NDLEA.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Boss Mustapha – Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Francis Fadahunsi – National Assembly member from Adamawa State, traditional rulers and other key stakeholders.
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