The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brigadier-General Buba Marwa, has announced that in 2023, the agency successfully prosecuted and convicted 15 drug kingpins out of 3,412 drug offenders. These convictions resulted in a collective imprisonment term of 168 years.
Marwa made this revelation during an awards ceremony held at the NDLEA national headquarters in Abuja, where outstanding performances of personnel and state commands were recognized and rewarded. A total of 104 personnel and 13 state commands were honored for their exemplary achievements in the latter half of 2023.
Addressing the audience, Marwa highlighted the agency’s achievements in its renewed fight against illicit substance trafficking since January 2021. In 2023 alone, NDLEA recorded 13,664 arrests, seized 1,606,799.09 kilograms of assorted illicit drugs, and secured 3,412 convictions, with 5,570 offenders charged to court.
Marwa also emphasized the agency’s intensified efforts against cannabis cultivation, with seven successful major operations leading to the discovery and destruction of over 206 hectares of cannabis plantations.
Furthermore, he praised the increased advocacy efforts undertaken by NDLEA throughout 2023, with a significant focus on the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign. Over 2,725 sensitization lectures and programs were conducted across various settings, including schools, worship centers, workplaces, and communities. Additionally, NDLEA provided counseling and rehabilitation services to 10,904 drug users.
Marwa acknowledged the transformation in NDLEA’s operations and performance over the past three years, culminating in recognition from the National Assembly for the agency’s efforts in combating illicit drug consumption and trafficking. He underscored the importance of the Command Awards and Commendations as a mechanism for promoting excellence and maintaining high standards within the agency.
In conclusion, Marwa reiterated the NDLEA’s commitment to upholding meritocracy and fostering a culture of hard work and excellence among its personnel.
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