By Nkechi Eze
Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has set a decisive operational tone for the Agency in 2026, charging commanders nationwide to dismantle drug cartels, disrupt their financial networks, and intensify nationwide sensitization and advocacy against substance abuse.
Marwa gave the directive during a high-level annual review and planning meeting held at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja, bringing together the top echelon of the Agency’s leadership. The strategic session assembled members of the NDLEA Management, Zonal Commanders, Commanders from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Commanders of Seaports and International Airports, the Marine Unit Commander, as well as Commanders of the Strike Force and Special Operations Units, among other senior officers.
In an official signed statement, the Director of Media and Advocacy, NDLEA, Femi Babafemi, disclosed that the meeting was convened to define the Agency’s 2026 operational direction and consolidate on the momentum of previous years’ achievements in the war against illicit drugs.
Addressing the commanders, Marwa declared that the Agency had commenced 2026 on a strong footing, building on record-breaking successes recorded in preceding years. He stressed that the year would mark a phase of unprecedented consolidation, particularly in the areas of Drug Supply Reduction (DSR) and Drug Demand Reduction (DDR).
“The results we achieved last year were significant, but we cannot afford to rest on our oars. Our 2026 goals are clear: we are here to completely disrupt the financial lifelines of drug cartels and ensure that every community in Nigeria is sensitized against the scourge of substance abuse,” Marwa stated.
He directed all commands to ensure seamless execution of the Agency’s 2026 strategic work plan, emphasizing that operational discipline, professionalism and strategic coordination must define every engagement. Reflecting on his leadership journey, the NDLEA boss recalled the commitments he made when he first assumed office and linked the Agency’s current standing to collective sacrifice and institutional dedication.
“When I first assumed office, I made certain declarations about the direction of this Agency and the resolve to confront drug barons and kingpins. Looking back, the progress achieved is the result of your collective efforts, and all glory belongs to God,” he said.
Marwa noted that the Agency had successfully concluded five years of sustained operations, describing the period as one of remarkable transformation and institutional growth.
“We have now successfully concluded five years, which passed remarkably quickly. While we acknowledge the achievements recorded during this period, we must not rest on our past successes. Rather, we must consolidate these gains and aim for even greater outcomes. Today, the Agency commands increased respect, both locally and internationally, and you should be proud to identify yourselves anywhere as officers and men of this Agency,” he added.
He further linked the renewal of his tenure by the President to the measurable results delivered by NDLEA operatives across the country.
“The renewal of my tenure by the President is largely a reflection of your work. While I may issue directives, real impact comes from seizures made, arrests effected, and convictions secured in the field. Without these results, there would be nothing to communicate to the public. For this reason, I sincerely appreciate your diligence, commitment, and hard work,” Marwa said.
The NDLEA Chairman explained that the 2026 meeting was designed to translate vision into measurable action, noting that while directors had already submitted proposed objectives, effective implementation would depend on the operational input and leadership of commanders in the field.
“This year, we are here to set clear targets. Directors have already submitted their proposed objectives, but these will only be complete with input from commanders. Discipline and professional conduct must remain central to our operations,” he declared.
Marwa stressed that operational professionalism and zero tolerance for compromise would remain non-negotiable pillars of NDLEA operations, directing commanders to prioritize intelligence-led operations, thorough surveillance, and proper planning before any engagement.
“Operational professionalism and zero tolerance for compromise are non-negotiable. Commanders must ensure thorough surveillance and planning before any operation. Where operational capacity is insufficient, commanders must request reinforcement rather than risk avoidable casualties,” he cautioned.
On drug demand reduction, Marwa acknowledged the progress recorded in advocacy and sensitization, particularly in schools and communities across the country, but insisted that the tempo must be intensified nationwide.
“Advocacy and sensitization efforts have recorded encouraging progress, particularly in schools and communities nationwide. These efforts must be intensified,” he said.
He further directed that State Drug Control Committees must be strengthened across all states, with structures extended down to the local government and ward levels to deepen community ownership of the anti-drug campaign.
“State Drug Control Committees must be strengthened across all states, with efforts extended down to local government and ward levels. This year, all states must have functional committees. I urge all commanders to remain focused, professional, and committed to the mandate of the Agency. Together, we will continue to strengthen our impact and uphold the confidence reposed in us,” Marwa stated.
Reassuring Nigerians, the NDLEA boss affirmed that the Agency remains firmly committed to protecting Nigerian youths and families from the dangers of illicit drugs and substance abuse. He said the strong operational start to 2026 sends a clear signal to drug cartels that there will be no vacuum, tolerance, or breathing space for their criminal enterprise in the country.
Marwa also called on citizens to remain vigilant and continue to support NDLEA operations with credible intelligence, stressing that the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking is a collective national responsibility requiring the active participation of communities, institutions and individuals across Nigeria.
