National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), yesterday pledged President Bola Tinubu’s continuous support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) because of its contribution to the success of the country’s national security.

They spoke at the commissioning of 46 new vehicles distributed to commands and formations of NDLEA at the Agency’s national headquarters in Abuja.
Ribadu, in his address, commended the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) and his team for their sustained commitment, discipline and energy in transforming the NDLEA into a result-oriented force against illicit drugs, one of the most destabilising threats to Nigeria’s national well-being.

He noted that criminal gangs thrived on drug profits, insurgents and armed groups fund their activities with it, and countless young Nigerians fall victim to addiction, with devastating consequences for families and communities.

He challenged NDLEA officers to view the commissioning as a call to do more, remain vigilant, act within the law, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

In his welcome address, the Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA said the event was symbolic of the continuous effort to reposition the agency as a modern, efficient and respected organisation as well as a reflection of the sustained commitment of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to equipping institutions that stand on the frontline of the country’s national security and public health. He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering and strategic support for the Agency.

In his remarks, Fagbemi commended President Tinubu for facilitating the achievements recorded by the leadership of Marwa at the NDLEA in the past two years. He said: “Without an understanding of the President, it would be very difficult to have this type of gathering today. So, my first appreciation goes to him. There is a very, very close nexus between drug trafficking and all the crimes that we have.”

Also, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, said: “The NDLEA has consistently demonstrated courage, professionalism and resilience in confronting the threats posed by drugs and substance abuse in very challenging circumstances.

“The procurement of these operational vehicles is therefore a significant boost to the agency’s operational response capability and overall effectiveness in the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse. It is my firm belief that this investment will translate to a greater deterrent to those who seek to profit from this destructive trade.”

In his goodwill message on the occasion, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Dr Adebowale Adedokun, congratulated President Tinubu for putting the likes of Marwa in positions of leadership in various agencies. He said the event was a testament to Marwa’s leadership style and belief in Nigeria.

A total of 38 SUVs were distributed to zonal commands, strategic commands and state commands countrywide, while 10 Sedan cars were given to 10 directorates.

About 15 newly promoted Commanders of Narcotics (CN) were also decorated with their new rank of Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN) by the NDLEA boss at the end of the ceremony.