The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retired), has announced a renewed and aggressive campaign against drug trafficking networks across the country as he begins his second five-year term in office.
Okay News reports that his reappointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday, 14 November, 2025, was received with widespread celebration among personnel at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency National Headquarters in Abuja. The official confirmation of his tenure renewal was issued the following day through a statement signed by Femi Babafemi, who serves as the Director of Media and Advocacy at the agency.
Addressing a large crowd of officers who gathered to welcome him after the announcement, Marwa stated that the next phase of operations would be significantly tougher for drug barons, trafficking cartels, and cultivators across Nigeria. According to him, “This second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them. Drugs shall not pass, in or out or within Nigeria.”
He expressed genuine surprise at the elaborate reception awaiting him when he returned from Friday prayers, saying, “First of all, what a surprise, I did not expect to come back from jumat service to meet these great felicitations, dancing and singing by our personnel. Thank you very much.”
Marwa extended gratitude to God, President Tinubu, and the entire National Drug Law Enforcement Agency workforce for their commitment, noting that their support made the achievements of his first term possible. He added, “We thank the President and Commander-in-Chief for the special recognition of our collective efforts and the new mandate for us to continue with the war against drug abuse and trafficking. I thank the management, officers, men, and women of the agency who continue to provide service to the nation twenty four hours a day and seven days a week, in spite of the risks that you all face.”
He also highlighted the consistent institutional support provided by senior federal government officials, including the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun. Marwa emphasized that international partners had also played a significant role in strengthening the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s operations.
Marwa Sends Strong Warning To Drug Traffickers
Speaking directly to those who run or participate in the illegal drug economy, Marwa said, “This is the right time for them to drop that criminal business and face something legitimate.” He noted that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s Alternative Development Unit provides opportunities for offenders to transition into lawful economic activities. However, he warned that those who persist would face severe consequences.
According to him, “Those who refuse to do that can be sure that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency is up and able on its task of law enforcement. You will be arrested, the drugs will be seized, and your assets will be confiscated. So, you come out from jail, there will be nothing left.”
Marwa reminded personnel of the declaration he made upon assuming office in his first term, stating, “I said very clearly that National Drug Law Enforcement Agency will be feared by the drug cartels. And that is just the beginning.”
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Expands Rehabilitation Strategy
As part of efforts to reduce demand for illicit substances, the Chairman announced that the agency would expand its rehabilitation facilities across Nigeria. He explained that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency currently operates thirty rehabilitation centres, but seven additional centres have been approved under the Two Thousand And Twenty Five national budget. This development would ensure that “every state will have its own rehab centre.”
Marwa further highlighted the collaboration between the agency and the Federal Ministry of Health as well as the Federal Ministry of Education. He noted that the government had approved “drug tests for students on admission into tertiary institutions,” explaining that such measures would allow authorities to detect early signs of drug misuse among young people.
He concluded by offering prayers for the President, all supporters, and every member of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency workforce as the agency enters what he described as a decisive phase in the national war against drug abuse.
