NDLEA Promotes 3,248 Officers, Honours SS 12 Commands, and 148 Personnel

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has elevated 3,248 people, including seven senior personnel to the positions of Deputy Commander General and Assistant Commanders General.

Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), the agency’s Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, personally decorated the three Deputy Commanders General of Narcotics (DCGNs) and four Assistant Commanders General of Narcotics (ACGNs) at a colorful ceremony in Abuja where 12 state commands and 148 other personnel received awards and commendations for their outstanding performances in the first half of the year.

Marwa stated during the ceremony that the exercise shows that the agency’s culture of excellence has now been established.

“Without grandstanding, we can say that we have raised the bar,” he remarked. “Our weekly drug supply reduction effort demonstrates our effectiveness. Our novel strategy to reducing drug demand is remarkable. The intricate and effective intelligence we use to track down drug lords and demolish cartels demonstrates the capability of the new NDLEA we have collaboratively established. Our success record in prosecution is a clear indication that we are doing our job.

“Our fears have been allayed about what tomorrow holds for the NDLEA and its personnel. Even while we are still in a state of rapid evolution, there have been seismic changes, and we have evolved a better, more efficient and sustainable system that guarantees viable work conditions, good staff welfare, and enhanced job performance.

“We have since been able to settle the problem of career progression by expanding the agency’s structures. We are cooperating more with regional opposites and international partners. All these translate into ample opportunities for upward mobility for focused, hardworking officers.”

While adding that the preceding two and a half years have witnessed many changes in the Agency, Marwa stated, “We have tried to reward hard work and professionalism by granting officers higher responsibilities. Everyone who is eligible for advancement has been considered. We are also expanding our training options. Over the previous 18 months, we have conducted over 150 trainings for over 6,000 officers.”

He warned them not to rest on their laurels, saying, “We have adopted global best practices, and we have no doubt that the NDLEA of our dreams is here ahead of us.” As a result, I challenge you to take greater pride in your work. Today’s society values our efforts.

On World Drug Day last week, the President and Commander in Chief reaffirmed his administration’s unflinching support for NDLEA. Our international partners and foreign governments are keeping an eye on us and providing us with the necessary encouragement. And we have a high rating among narcotics enforcement agencies.

“It is not yet time to rest on our oars. We have no option but to sustain the momentum of our upward trajectory, build on our performance, and continue to protect our hard-earned reputation. It is on this note that I demand more from us in terms of hard work, discipline, valour, professionalism, commitment, and all the time-honored virtues that enshroud labour with dignity.”

Responding on behalf of the promoted and honored officers, DCGN Joyce Titus-Awogbuyi thanked Marwa for inspiring the agency and motivating people to overcome barriers and excel in their areas of responsibility.

She stated that the promotion and accolades will push her and others to contribute even more to the business aim of eradicating Nigeria of substance misuse and illicit drug trafficking.