RismadarVoice Reporters
January 23, 2026
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), has set ambitious operational targets for 2026, directing commanders nationwide to intensify efforts to dismantle drug cartels, disrupt their financial networks.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, following the NDLEA’s annual review and planning meeting held at its National Headquarters in Abuja.
Addressing members of the agency’s management, zonal commanders, and heads of the 36 state commands and the FCT, Marwa described 2026 as a year of “unprecedented consolidation” in the fight against illicit drugs.
According to the statement, Marwa said the agency had begun the year on a strong footing, building on what he described as record-breaking achievements in recent years, particularly 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: to completely disrupt the financial lifelines of drug cartels and ensure that every community in Nigeria is sensitised against the scourge of substance abuse,” Marwa was quoted as saying.
He urged commanders to ensure seamless implementation of the 2026 strategic work plan, stressing that while the agency had made notable progress over the past five years, greater results were expected.
“We have now successfully concluded five years, which passed remarkably quickly. While we acknowledge the achievements recorded during this period, we must not rest on our past successes. Rather, we must consolidate these gains, aim for even greater outcomes,” he said.
Reflecting on the renewal of his tenure by President Bola Tinubu, Marwa attributed the decision to the dedication of NDLEA officers nationwide.
“Today, the Agency commands increased respect, both locally and internationally. The renewal of my tenure by the President is largely a reflection of your work. Real impact comes from seizures made, arrests effected, and convictions secured in the field,” he said, commending officers for their commitment and professionalism.
Marwa also laid down strict operational guidelines for 2026, declaring zero tolerance for compromise and stressing the importance of discipline and professionalism. He warned commanders against unnecessary risks, advising thorough surveillance, proper planning, and the request for reinforcements where operational capacity is insufficient.
The NDLEA boss further directed that advocacy and sensitization programmes in schools, communities be intensified, while State Drug Control Committees should be strengthened, made functional in all states, down to local government, ward levels.
“This year, all states must have functional committees. I urge all commanders to remain focused, professional, committed to the mandate of the Agency,” he said.
