The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has kicked off its 2026 operations with a clarion call for intensified efforts against illicit drug trafficking across the country.
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, gave the directive during a high-level strategic meeting held at the Agency’s National Headquarters in Abuja on Friday.
The meeting brought together top officials, including Management members, Zonal Commanders, State Commanders from all 36 states and the FCT, as well as heads of Seaports, International Airports, Marine Unit, Strike Force, and Special Operations Units.
Addressing the officials, Marwa said the Agency would build on the record-breaking achievements of previous years, stressing that 2026 would focus on consolidating gains in Drug Supply Reduction (DSR) and Drug Demand Reduction (DDR).
“The results we achieved last year were significant, but we cannot afford to rest on our oars. Our 2026 goals are clear: we are here to completely disrupt the financial lifelines of drug cartels and ensure that every community in Nigeria is sensitized against the scourge of substance abuse,” he declared.
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Marwa directed all Commands to ensure seamless execution of the Agency’s strategic plan, emphasizing discipline, professional conduct, and zero tolerance for compromise. He urged commanders to conduct thorough surveillance and planning before operations and to request reinforcements when necessary to avoid casualties.
He also called for stronger State Drug Control Committees at all levels, including local government and ward areas, insisting that all states must have functional committees this year.
“The renewal of my tenure by the President is largely a reflection of your work. While I may issue directives, real impact comes from seizures made, arrests effected, and convictions secured in the field. Without these results, there would be nothing to communicate to the public. For this reason, I sincerely appreciate your diligence, commitment, and hard work,” he said.
Marwa reassured Nigerians of the Agency’s commitment to protecting youths and families from drugs, warning that there would be no vacuum or breathing space for traffickers in 2026. He also encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and provide useful information to the Agency, stressing that the fight against drug abuse is a shared responsibility.
