NDLEA Chief Marwa Orders Total War on Drug Cartels in 2026 Strategy
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has issued a decisive directive to all field commanders of the Agency. He has ordered them to intensify efforts aimed at completely dismantling drug cartels across Nigeria, marking this as a central operational priority for the year 2026.
Strategic Meeting in Abuja Sets the Tone
Marwa delivered this crucial directive during the Agency's annual review and strategic planning meeting, which was held at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja. The gathering was comprehensive, bringing together senior management staff, zonal commanders, and commanders from all 36 states as well as the Federal Capital Territory. Additionally, commanders of seaports, international airports, the Marine Unit, and heads of the Strike Force and Special Operations Units were in attendance, underscoring the nationwide scope of the initiative.
Building on Record-Breaking Achievements
While outlining the Agency's focus for the 2026 operational year, Marwa emphasized that NDLEA is entering this period on a solid footing, having built upon record-breaking achievements recorded in recent years. He described the coming year as a critical period of consolidation, with a renewed and sharpened emphasis on two key areas: Drug Supply Reduction (DSR) and Drug Demand Reduction (DDR).
According to Marwa, the Agency must remain proactive and relentless in its mission to cut off the financial networks that sustain drug trafficking organizations. Simultaneously, he stressed the importance of ensuring sustained sensitization and advocacy against substance abuse in communities across the nation, highlighting a balanced approach to the drug menace.
Non-Negotiable Standards and Strategic Adherence
Marwa made it clear that all commands must strictly adhere to the 2026 strategic work plan. He reiterated that professionalism, discipline, and a zero-tolerance policy for compromise remain non-negotiable pillars in NDLEA operations. Reflecting on his five years at the helm of the Agency, he attributed the significant progress recorded so far to the unwavering dedication and collective efforts of officers and men stationed across the country.
He noted that the renewed confidence shown by the Federal Government in extending his tenure is a direct reflection of the measurable impact achieved through numerous arrests, substantial seizures, and successful prosecutions of drug offenders.
Operational Priorities and Community Engagement
Marwa urged commanders to prioritize intelligence gathering, surveillance, and detailed planning before carrying out any operations. He advised them to seek reinforcement where necessary to avoid exposing personnel to unnecessary risks, ensuring safety and effectiveness in their missions.
Furthermore, Marwa called for an expansion of advocacy and sensitization programmes, with a particular focus on targeting schools, communities, and vulnerable groups. He stressed that drug abuse prevention must be pursued with the same intensity and vigor as enforcement activities, recognizing the importance of education in combating the drug scourge.
Activating State Drug Control Committees
In a significant move, Marwa directed that State Drug Control Committees be fully activated in all states and extended down to the local government and ward levels. He insisted that no state should be without a functional committee in 2026, aiming to create a grassroots network for drug control and awareness.
Reassurance to the Public and a Warning to Cartels
Reassuring the Nigerian public, Marwa reaffirmed NDLEA's steadfast commitment to safeguarding youths and families from the dangers of illicit drugs. He issued a stern warning to drug cartels, declaring that there would be no room for their operations anywhere in the country, signaling a tough stance against organized drug crime.
Marwa also urged all Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue to support the Agency by providing credible and timely information. He emphasized that the fight against drug abuse and trafficking requires a collective national effort, calling for unity in this critical battle for the nation's health and security.
