The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Marwa (rtd) on Monday, inaugurated a specialised weapon handling training course for officers of the agency, marking the formal induction of AK-47 rifles and advanced pistols into its operations for the first time in its 36-year history.
The ceremony, held at the NDLEA Academy in Jos, Plateau State, is aimed at strengthening the agency’s operational capacity as it confronts increasingly armed and violent drug trafficking syndicates across the country.
Key Highlights:
- NDLEA launched its first weapon handling training.
- Officers will be equipped with AK-47 rifles and pistols.
- The move aims to tackle armed drug trafficking gangs.
- Master trainers will train officers nationwide.
- Marwa urged strict discipline and responsible weapon use.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Col. Murtala Aminu, Marwa described the initiative as a historic milestone necessitated by the changing dynamics of the anti-narcotics campaign.
He said drug trafficking organisations had evolved into heavily armed and well-organised criminal networks, making it imperative for the NDLEA operatives to be adequately equipped for self-defence while carrying out their duties.
“The nature of the war we fight has evolved. Drug trafficking organisations are no longer mere commercial criminal enterprises; they are armed, organised and ruthless.
“Our officers face increasing danger in the field, and it would be unconscionable for this agency to send men and women into harm’s way without the tools and training to protect themselves and the public they serve.
“This programme is, therefore, not just about firearms; it is about the preservation of lives and the projection of institutional strength,” he said.
Marwa expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for supporting efforts to strengthen the agency’s operational capabilities, describing the President’s commitment as instrumental to the transformation of the NDLEA.
He also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) for providing the first major consignment of firearms and ammunition, which enabled the commencement of the training programme.
According to him, the procurement of the weapons began in 2023 through the China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) and has reached its final phase.
He disclosed that thousands of rifles, pistols and ammunition would soon be delivered, adding that a detailed distribution and accountability framework had already been approved.
Marwa further revealed that the NDLEA is collaborating with the Nigerian Air Force to facilitate the nationwide deployment of the weapons to commands across the country.
The pioneer training programme is designed to produce master trainers selected from commands nationwide based on merit.
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The participants are expected to return to their respective commands to conduct a compulsory one-month weapon handling training for all officers before the firearms are deployed for operational use.
Addressing the trainees, Marwa urged them to uphold discipline, professionalism and strict adherence to safety procedures.
He stressed that handling firearms was a serious responsibility that required sound judgement, ethical conduct and full compliance with the rules of engagement.
He warned that the agency would not tolerate negligence in the handling of arms and ammunition, insisting that operational proficiency must always be matched with restraint and respect for the rule of law.
Marwa also charged the officers to justify the confidence reposed in them by serving as worthy instructors and role models for their colleagues.
The NDLEA chairman expressed satisfaction with the agency’s transformation in recent years, noting that it had become a more professional and formidable force against drug trafficking syndicates.
