Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, has told drug barons, traffickers and their cartels to expect an even tougher battle as he warns them to desist from their illegal business or risk the consequences.
Marwa, who was reappointed by President Bola Tinubu for another five-year tenure last Friday, November 14, 2025, gave the warning while speaking to jubilant officers and staff who welcomed him back to the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja. He said his renewed mandate was a signal that the war against substance abuse and drug trafficking would intensify.
He said this while appreciating President Tinubu for acknowledging the agency’s sustained efforts:
“What a surprise,” said Marwa. “I did not expect to return from Jumat service to such celebrations. We thank Almighty God because the glory always goes to Him. We thank the President and Commander-in-Chief for this recognition and renewed mandate. I also thank the management, officers, men and women of the agency who continue to serve the nation 24/7 despite the risks.”
Marwa also appreciated the support of the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun; and both local and international partners working with the NDLEA to curb drug-related crimes.
Addressing criminal networks directly, he said:
“This word must go to the cartels: they have not seen anything yet. This second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them. Drugs shall not pass in, out or within Nigeria.” Marwa reiterated the commitment of the agency to implement the presidential directive given by President Tinubu. “From the start, I said NDLEA would be feared by the drug cartels. And this is just the beginning,” he added.
