Felix Temitope, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has relocated to its newly developed headquarters in the Jahi area of Abuja. The facility, which marks the completion of the first phase of the agency's national headquarters project, was inaugurated during an interdenominational service held on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), highlighted the significance of the move as a milestone in the agency’s ongoing transformation. Marwa noted that the relocation underscores efforts to modernize and enhance the NDLEA's operational capabilities, a process that began in January 2021.
“I’m glad we have finally moved into this facility despite initial budgetary constraints,” Marwa said. “Although this is not 100% completed, it is sufficiently functional for us to operate. With the agency's expansion, the old headquarters could no longer accommodate our staff, which made this move essential. This low-key inauguration will enable us to consolidate operations for better efficiency and seamless coordination.”
He added that the old headquarters in Gimbiya Street, Garki, Abuja, will continue to function as an annex.
Marwa expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and commended international partners, the National Assembly, the Judiciary, and Nigerian citizens for their encouragement. He assured that the new facility would inspire the agency’s personnel to surpass previous achievements in the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
“We are motivated to do more, thanks to the collective support we have received. This new environment is a catalyst for greater accomplishments as we remain committed to our mandate,” Marwa stated.
He also acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor in initiating the quest for a modern headquarters and highlighted the NDLEA’s strategic advancements since 2021.
In his welcome remarks, the Secretary to the NDLEA, Shadrach Haruna, praised Marwa’s transformative leadership, which has elevated the agency to global standards in professionalism and operational capacity.
“Under the Chairman’s leadership, the NDLEA has increased its staff strength from 5,000 to 15,000, facilitated promotions, cleared accumulated allowances, and supported widows of fallen officers. The recent amendment of the agency’s enabling law is another testament to this administration’s commitment to progress,” Haruna said.
He described the new headquarters as a symbol of the agency’s incremental but strategic repositioning agenda.
The inauguration featured Christian and Islamic prayers for President Tinubu and the nation. A commemorative plaque was also unveiled to mark the occasion.
The new headquarters project is expected to be fully completed with the 2025 budgetary allocations.
Femi Babafemi, NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, confirmed that the agency’s expanded operational base would strengthen its capacity to combat drug cartels and ensure a drug-free Nigeria.
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