By Emma Njoku
Chairman/CEO, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), yesterday, said the agency, under his watch, arrested 50,901 suspects for various drug offences and secured 9,034 convictions in the last three years.
He made the disclosure during the commissioning of an ultra modern operational facility built and donated by the British government at the cargo section of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos. In his remarks at the commissioning and handing over ceremony of the complex, Marwa commended the British government for the generous support and said the facility will further boost the capability of the anti-narcotic agency in tackling the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
He said: “We gather here not just to commission a new building complex, but to celebrate a significant milestone in our ongoing fight against the scourge of licit and illicit drug trafficking. Today, we commission the newly acquired building, a project made possible through the generous support of the British Government.
“I must begin by expressing our deepest gratitude to the British Government, for their unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to our cause. From the onset of our collaboration, the UK has been a steadfast ally in our relentless pursuit to neutralise transnational organised criminal activities, particularly in the realm of illicit drug production and trafficking.
“This building complex stands not only as a physical structure but as a symbol of the enduring partnership between our two nations in the global fight against drug trafficking. It represents the culmination of years of cooperation, mutual trust, and shared determination to combat one of the most pressing threats to our societies. The significance of this project cannot be overstated. It will serve as a vital hub for data analysis and strategic planning in our efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks and apprehend those responsible. With state-of-the-art facilities and technology at our disposal, we are better equipped than ever before to tackle this complex and ever-evolving challenge head-on.
“But beyond the bricks and mortar, this building complex embodies the spirit of collaboration and solidarity that defines our partnership with the British Government. It is a testament to what can be achieved when nations come together with a shared purpose and a shared commitment to making our world a safer place for all.”
Marwa said under his watch, the NDLEA, in the last three years has undergone a tremendous reformation, with its metamorphosis catalysed by partners like the UK. He said the agency’s operations have undergone substantial reforms, resulting in remarkable achievements within the period. The NDLEA boss further disclosed that under his watch, the NDLEA has achieved significant milestones in its mission to combat drug trafficking and abuse.
“With a total of 50,901 arrests, including the apprehension of 46 drug barons, our agency has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to bringing those involved in illicit drug activities to justice. Furthermore, the conviction of 9,034 offenders underscores our relentless pursuit of accountability and deterrence in the fight against drug-related crimes.
“Our seizure of 7,560,748.5 kilograms (7,561 tonnes) not only disrupts the flow of illegal drugs but also serves as a significant blow to the criminal networks responsible for their distribution. We have taken decisive action against illicit drug crop cultivation with our search-and-destroy campaign against cannabis plantations which have led to the destruction of 1,057.33348 hectares of cannabis farms in the past three years.”
While acknowledging officials of the British government that facilitated the realisation of the project, especially Mr. Dave Carter, the NDLEA boss called for the strengthening of the partnership between Nigeria and the UK.
“As we stand on the threshold of a new chapter in our partnership, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to intensifying the fight against drug trafficking and organised crime. Let us continue to work hand in hand, across borders and boundaries, to disrupt criminal networks, intercept illegal drugs, and bring to justice those who seek to profit from the illicit drug trade.”
Marwa stated that though so much has been achieved under his leadership of the agency, the battle against illicit drugs is far from over.
“Let us redouble our efforts, with renewed vigour and determination, as we strive to build a safer, more secure future for generations to come”, he charged.
Speaking at the ceremony, British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jonny Baxter, assured of continued support to NDLEA and Nigeria.
He said: “We, the UK government, are delighted to have this long-standing relationship with the NDLEA, and I’m, in particular, delighted to have been personally involved in a number of activities, especially your maritime. This building makes a whole set of different actors and capabilities to address any criminal activity.
“We’re delighted to continue our support for the NDLEA and the Nigerian government to tackle what is sadly a global industry, which needs a global response. I’d like to join the chairman in affirming our continued support, our continued cooperation and, indeed, our continued pride in working together with ladies and gentlemen of this agency, the NDLEA.”