Felix Temitope, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), in a bold move to recognize exceptional service has granted special promotions to eight officers of the Marine Command for their courage and professionalism during a recent operation. The operation led to the interception of illicit drug shipments on the Lagos waterways, thwarting a smuggling attempt from Ghana to Nigeria.
According to a statement today by the agency's spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, the promoted officers, who were honored at a ceremony held on Thursday, August 29th, 2024, at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja, displayed extraordinary bravery in intercepting a boat laden with 60 jumbo bags of illicit drugs. The officers managed to seize 2,400 kilograms of Ghanaian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, and apprehended a Ghanaian suspect, 30-year-old Hambo Tete. The successful operation underscores the effectiveness of the NDLEA's efforts to secure Nigeria's waterways against drug traffickers.
During the ceremony, Marwa highlighted the importance of the officers' actions, stating, "Every time we have a breakthrough, it tells the world a story about the new NDLEA we are working hard to build. It also reinforces our conviction as an organization that we are on the right track." He emphasized that the special promotion was a recognition of the officers' gallantry and unwavering dedication to duty, even in the face of violent provocation during the operation.
Marwa also used the occasion to reflect on the broader reforms he has instituted within the NDLEA over the past three years, aimed at motivating officers and enhancing their performance. "Under this scheme, we have instituted the bi-annual Command Awards and Commendation as well as special promotion for deserving officers, among other measures," Marwa said. He reiterated the significance of the operation, noting that it demonstrated the effectiveness of the NDLEA's Marine Command in making Nigeria's waterways impenetrable to drug traffickers.
The Marine Command's success is part of the NDLEA's broader strategy to close off all routes—airports, seaports, land borders, and now waterways—used by drug traffickers. Marwa expressed his gratitude to the UK Home Office International Operations for their support in equipping and training the Marine Command, which has been crucial in these operations.
Addressing the promoted officers, Marwa urged them to continue upholding the integrity of their work and to remain vigilant in their duties. "There is so much work to do out there, and there are dangers involved. As long as we conduct our operations in line with established SOPs, as these officers did, and as long as we don't compromise our mandate, we shall always prevail," he added.
Speaking on behalf of the promoted officers, Team Leader Aaron Dick expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating that the special promotion and commendation would not only motivate him and his colleagues to continue excelling but would also inspire other NDLEA personnel to strive for excellence in their duties.
The promoted officers are Dick Aaron Dick, Alabi Mayowa, Gabriel Ubokikwan, Aso Daniel John, Abdul Emmanuel Sule, Ngabolo Victor Sonpano, Jonah Emmanuel Sule, and Membe Timipa Gabriel. Their exemplary service is a testament to the NDLEA's commitment to ensuring that Nigeria's waterways remain secure and free from the threat of drug trafficking.
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