August 21, (THEWILL) — The International Police Academy (IPA) has appointed Deputy Commander General (DCG) Joseph Ogirima Icha of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) as Director of International Counter-Narcotics Training.
The IPA Executive Board said the honorary appointment recognises Icha’s professional contributions to law enforcement, security, and academic advancement, as well as the shared global commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking through training, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
Based in New York with presence in Europe and over 140 countries, the Academy is a globally respected institution dedicated to providing advanced education and research opportunities for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilians.
“DCG Joseph Ogirima Icha has been officially appointed as a Director of the Academy, Honorary Member of the International Police Academy (IPOA) and UNIPOL International Police University, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to law enforcement, security, and academic advancement,” read the appointment letter signed by IPA President, Shuaib Adam, and Executive Director/CEO, Dr Alexander Jan.
Icha, who currently serves as Director of Training and Manpower Development at NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, has been instrumental in building the agency’s capacity through modern training programmes, international collaborations, and reforms aligned with global best practices.
Congratulating him on the appointment, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), described the recognition as a testament to the professionalism, commitment, and international relevance of NDLEA officers.
According to Marwa, the appointment highlights Nigeria’s growing role in the global drug control architecture under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This appointment is not just a personal achievement for Icha but a collective pride for the agency and the country.
“It shows that the world is watching the reforms and progress being made in Nigeria’s drug law enforcement efforts. It is also a challenge to all our officers to continue giving their best, knowing that excellence does not go unnoticed,” Marwa stated.
He urged Icha to use the position to further project Nigeria’s commitment to global best practices in drug law enforcement and promote capacity building for officers from other countries facing similar challenges.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
