NDLEA Relocates to New Headquarters in Abuja as Marwa Urges Staff to Intensify Fight Against Drug Cartels
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially relocated to its newly developed headquarters in Jahi, Abuja, marking a significant milestone in the agency’s transformation.
According to a statement signed by Femi Babafemi, Director, Media and Advocacy at the NDLEA, the facility, part of a phased development plan, was inaugurated on Wednesday, 26th November 2024, during an interdenominational service attended by management, officers, and key stakeholders.
The NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the relocation as a pivotal moment in the agency’s modernisation efforts.
“This represents a phase in the transformation and recalibration of the NDLEA into a modern, result-oriented anti-narcotic agency, a process we began in January 2021,” Marwa stated.
Although the new headquarters is yet to be fully completed, Marwa noted that it is operationally ready. “This is not 100% completed, but it is sufficiently functional for us to move in. The decision to relocate before the end of 2024 was driven by necessity, as our former headquarters could no longer accommodate our growing workforce.
“This move will consolidate our operations, ensuring efficiency, effectiveness, and seamless coordination,” he explained.
The previous headquarters in Gimbiya, Garki, will now serve as an annex to support the expanded operations of the agency.
Marwa expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support, which has empowered the NDLEA to fulfil its mandate of combating substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
He also acknowledged the role of international partners, the National Assembly, the judiciary, and Nigerian citizens in encouraging the agency’s efforts.
“Your support motivates us to do more. I believe this new work environment will inspire all of us to surpass past achievements,” Marwa said, addressing the enthusiastic gathering of staff and officers.
The NDLEA boss also praised his predecessor for initiating the project, setting the foundation for what has now become a symbol of the agency’s growing stature.
In his welcome address, Shadrach Haruna, Secretary to the Agency, commended Marwa for his transformative leadership over the past three years. He highlighted several achievements, including:
Increasing the agency’s staff strength from 5,000 to 15,000.
Promoting officers and opening new vacancies.
Clearing accumulated allowances for staff and the widows of fallen officers.
Facilitating the recent amendment of the NDLEA’s enabling law by the National Assembly.
“The commissioning of our new headquarters is a testament to the strategic and incremental repositioning agenda led by our chairman,” Haruna stated.
The inauguration ceremony featured prayers by Christian and Islamic clerics for Nigeria and President Tinubu, followed by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.
As the NDLEA settles into its new home, Marwa charged personnel to remain steadfast and unrelenting in their fight against drug cartels, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the nation from the scourge of drug abuse and trafficking.
The next phase of the headquarters project is scheduled for completion with the 2025 budgetary allocation, further enhancing the agency’s capacity to meet the challenges ahead.
