Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retired), the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has launched his second term in office with a powerful declaration of war against drug barons and criminal cartels operating in Nigeria.
A Stern Warning to Criminal Networks
The anti-narcotics chief, who received a renewed five-year mandate from President Bola Tinubu on Friday, November 14, 2025, delivered his tough message during a welcome ceremony at the agency's National Headquarters in Abuja. Staff members gathered to celebrate his reappointment, which Marwa described as a vote of confidence from the administration.
"This word must go to the cartels. The cartels have not seen anything yet. I promise them this second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them," Marwa stated emphatically. "Drugs shall not pass—in or out, or within Nigeria."
Marwa directly addressed those involved in illegal drug activities, urging them to abandon their criminal enterprises immediately. "Those engaged in illicit drug trafficking should see this as the right time to drop that criminal business and embrace legitimate means of livelihood," he advised.
Consequences for Defiance
The NDLEA boss outlined severe consequences for anyone who chooses to ignore his warning. He emphasized that the agency would exercise its full enforcement powers against persistent offenders.
"You will be arrested, the drugs will be seized, and your assets will be confiscated. By the time you come out of jail, there will be nothing left," Marwa declared, sending a clear message about the agency's determination to dismantle drug networks completely.
Marwa also highlighted the agency's Alternative Development Unit (ADU), which encourages cannabis farmers to transition to legal agricultural practices. While this program offers a pathway to legitimate income, those who refuse to cooperate will face the full force of the law.
Expanding Rehabilitation and Prevention Efforts
Beyond enforcement, Marwa revealed ambitious plans to strengthen the agency's drug demand reduction initiatives. These include expanded prevention programs, public sensitization campaigns, counseling services, and treatment facilities for those struggling with addiction.
In a significant development for Nigeria's healthcare infrastructure, Marwa announced that seven additional rehabilitation centers are being established under the 2025 budget. This expansion, supported by President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, will ensure that every state in Nigeria eventually has its own dedicated rehabilitation facility.
Marwa expressed gratitude to the President for recognizing the agency's efforts and providing continued support. "We thank the President and Commander-in-Chief for the special recognition of our collective efforts and for the renewed mandate to continue the war against drug abuse and trafficking," he stated.
The NDLEA chairman also acknowledged the support of the agency's management team, officers, personnel, and both local and international partners. He specifically mentioned the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, among others who have contributed to the agency's ongoing success.
Reflecting on his initial appointment, Marwa recalled his early promise that "NDLEA would be feared by the drug cartels," noting that what cartels have experienced so far was merely the beginning of a much more intensive campaign against illicit drugs in Nigeria.
