With 50,901 Arrests, 9,034 Convictions, We Have Sent A Message To Drug Cartels, Says Marwa

Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), stated that the arrest of 50,901 drug offenders, including 46 barons, and the successful prosecution and conviction of 9,034 of them, as well as the seizure of over 7,561 tonnes of illicit substances in the last 38 months, has sent the right message to drug cartels and their kingpins that Nigeria will not tolerate their criminal activities.

Marwa stated this in Lagos on Monday during the commissioning and handover ceremony for an operational facility built and donated to the NDLEA by the British government.

He praised the British government for its generous support, noting that it would strengthen the anti-narcotics agency’s ability to combat the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.

He stated: “We are here not only to commission a new building complex but also to commemorate a significant milestone in our ongoing fight against the scourge of licit and illicit drug trafficking. Today, we dedicate the newly acquired building, made possible by the generous support of the British government.

“I must begin by expressing our heartfelt appreciation to the British government for their unwavering support and invaluable contributions to our cause. Since the beginning of our collaboration, the United Kingdom has been a staunch ally in our relentless pursuit of transnational organised criminal activities, particularly in the realm of illicit drug production and trafficking.

“This building complex is more than just a physical structure; it is also a symbol of our two countries’ long-standing partnership in the global fight against drug trafficking. It represents the culmination of years of collaboration, mutual trust, and shared determination to combat one of our society’s most serious threats.

“The magnitude of this project cannot be overstated. It will be a critical hub for data analysis and strategic planning as we work to disrupt drug trafficking networks and apprehend those responsible. With cutting-edge facilities and technology at our disposal, we are better positioned than ever to face this complex and ever-changing challenge.

“But, beyond the bricks and mortar, this building complex embodies the spirit of collaboration and solidarity that characterises our partnership with the British Government. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when nations work together with a common goal and commitment to making the world a safer place for all.

“As an agency, NDLEA has undergone a tremendous transformation, aided by partners such as the United Kingdom. Our operations have undergone significant reforms, resulting in outstanding achievements over the last three years.

“During this time, the NDLEA made significant strides in its mission to combat drug trafficking and abuse. With a total of 50,901 arrests, including the capture of 46 drug barons, our agency has demonstrated its unwavering dedication to bringing those involved in illegal drug activities to justice.

“Additionally, the conviction of 9,034 offenders demonstrates our unwavering pursuit of accountability and deterrence in the fight against drug-related crime.

“Our seizure of 7,560,748.5 kilogrammes (7,561 tonnes) not only disrupts the flow of illegal drugs but also delivers a significant blow to the criminal networks that distribute them. We have taken decisive action against illegal drug crop cultivation through our search-and-destroy campaign against cannabis plantations, which has resulted in the destruction of 1,057.33348 hectares of cannabis farms in the last three years.”

Marwa, while acknowledging British government officials who facilitated the project’s completion, particularly Mr Dave Carter, called for the strengthening of Nigeria-UK relations. “As we enter a new chapter in our partnership, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to stepping up the fight against drug trafficking and organised crime. Let us continue to collaborate across borders and boundaries to disrupt criminal networks, intercept illegal drugs, and prosecute those who profit from the illicit drug trade.”

He stated that, while much has been accomplished during his leadership of the agency, the fight against illicit drugs is far from over. “Let us redouble our efforts with renewed vigour and determination as we work to create a safer, more secure future for future generations,” he urged.

During the ceremony, Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, expressed his continued support for the NDLEA and Nigeria. According to him, “We, the UK government, are delighted to have this long-standing relationship with the NDLEA, and I am especially delighted to have personally participated in several activities, particularly your maritime. This structure creates a diverse set of actors and capabilities to address any criminal activity.

“We are delighted to continue our support for the NDLEA and the Nigerian government as they address what is sadly a global industry that requires a global response. I would like to join the chairman in expressing our continued support, cooperation, and, indeed, pride in working with the ladies and gentlemen of this agency, the NDLEA.”