January 14, (THEWILL) – The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has lauded the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and House Committees on Narcotic Drugs, for their continued commitment to the nation’s battle against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
Marwa, speaking on Monday 13th and Tuesday 14th January, led his management team to defend the Agency’s 2025 budget proposal before the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs and Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics. In his address, he sought the lawmakers’ ongoing support to bolster the Agency’s capacity to effectively execute its mandate.
The NDLEA boss expressed his gratitude for the unwavering backing the agency has received, while emphasizing the urgent need for further assistance in addressing critical infrastructural challenges, particularly the ongoing barracks accommodation project for the Agency’s personnel.
He stressed that securing proper accommodation would enhance the safety, morale, and performance of the Agency’s officers, enabling them to operate more efficiently.
“I want to first appreciate the honorable chairman, the deputy chairman, and the distinguished members of this esteemed committee for your invaluable and consistent support throughout the 2024 fiscal year. This committee, under its able and dynamic chairman, has demonstrated remarkable courage and commitment towards the war against drug abuse. Your efforts in amending the NDLEA Act have also been highly appreciated,” Marwa said.
Marwa went on to outline the need for funding for the barracks project, highlighting the safety concerns arising from insufficient accommodation for NDLEA personnel.
“I cannot overstate this matter. Reports of attacks on our officers and the subsequent loss of personnel and their families continually reach my desk. We trust this committee will recognize the urgency of this issue. Though there are compelling demands from other MDAs, the barracks project is essential to ensuring the operational efficiency and success of the NDLEA,” he added.
He also expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast encouragement and support for the Agency.
In defending the proposed N67.5 billion 2025 budget, Marwa explained the breakdown: N47.2 billion for recurrent personnel costs, N3.4 billion for recurrent overheads, and N16.9 billion for capital expenditure.
The personnel costs reflect the salaries of the Agency’s 14,038 officers and staff, while the overhead costs cater to the operational expenses of intelligence gathering, arrests, seizures, investigations, and prosecutions.
Marwa particularly called for an enhancement of the N16 billion allocated for capital expenditure, underscoring that there was no provision for the barracks project, which is critical to ensuring secure accommodation for NDLEA personnel across the country.
“The Agency faces growing challenges, including sophisticated drug cartels, drug abuse, and inadequate infrastructure.
“We have embarked on reforms to address these challenges, including constructing barracks to accommodate our personnel. Many of our commands currently operate from rented facilities, which are insufficient for effective administration. Proper accommodation will enhance staff morale, improve security, and strengthen our operational capacity,” Marwa stated.
In his remarks, Hon. Abass Adigun, Chairman of the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs, assured Marwa of the Committee’s commitment to adequate funding for the Agency.
“We recognize the critical role NDLEA plays in safeguarding our communities from the dangers of narcotics and illicit substances. As we deliberate today, we are committed to ensuring that public funds are allocated efficiently, with a focus on measurable outcomes, transparency, and accountability. Our goal is to ensure NDLEA is well-resourced to continue its vital work in the new year,” Adigun stated.
Also speaking, Ibrahim Dankwambo, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, commended the NDLEA for its outstanding performance in 2024.
“We are all witnesses to the good work you have been doing, and we are proud of your performance,” he said.
Marwa’s plea for increased support and funding comes at a time when the NDLEA is intensifying its efforts to curb the rising tide of drug abuse and trafficking, with the Agency reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s security and public health.
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.
