NDLEA Records 18,500 Arrests, Seizes 2.6 Million Kg of Drugs in 2024 – Marwa
... US Donates Facility to NDLEA in Lagos, Commends Leadership
The Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has reaffirmed that the agency’s operational successes in drug supply and demand reduction justify the support it receives from the United States and other international partners.
Marwa made this statement on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, during the commissioning of a central exhibit office donated by the US government to the NDLEA at its headquarters annex in Ikoyi, Lagos. The facility was handed over by the US Acting Consul General, Ms. Jo Ellen Georg, alongside other senior US officials.
Commending the US government’s support, Marwa described the collaboration as invaluable in bolstering the NDLEA's capacity to combat drug-related crimes. “Today, I am particularly pleased to acknowledge the donation of this office for our central exhibit custodians. This facility underscores the importance of efficient and secure handling of evidence, which is vital for successful prosecutions. It is an investment in the security and future of both our nations,” Marwa stated.
Record-Breaking Achievements
Highlighting the agency's achievements in 2024, Marwa disclosed that over 2.6 million kilograms of illicit drugs were seized, 18,500 offenders were arrested, and 3,250 convictions were secured, including 10 drug barons. Additionally, more than 220 hectares of cannabis farms were destroyed, while over 8,200 individuals underwent counseling and rehabilitation.
The NDLEA also conducted over 3,000 sensitization programs in schools, markets, motor parks, worship centers, and workplaces to address drug demand and supply reduction efforts simultaneously.
Marwa stressed the need for continued support, stating, “The challenges of illicit drugs are dynamic and multifaceted, requiring continuous partnership and innovation. We seek intervention in critical areas such as advanced training, technology, surveillance equipment, intelligence sharing, and operational logistics.”
US Commends NDLEA's Leadership
In her remarks, Ms. Jo Ellen Georg emphasized the robust partnership between Nigeria and the US, citing shared objectives in combating drug trafficking and instability. She commended Marwa for leveraging international support to achieve significant results.
“The US government, through AFRICOM and the DEA, is honored to hand over this dedicated facility to the NDLEA. This office will provide a secure space for investigations, processing arrestees, and conducting post-arrest interviews,” Georg said.
She highlighted the US government’s 2024 investment of $500,000 to modernize and equip the NDLEA’s chemical forensic laboratory in Lagos. The upgraded facility enhances the agency’s capacity to analyze suspicious substances and conduct forensic analyses.
“Our joint efforts have disrupted drug trafficking networks, dismantled meth labs, and strengthened forensic capabilities. We look forward to deepening this collaboration to combat narcotics and synthetic drugs, benefiting both our societies,” Georg added.
Marwa expressed gratitude to the US government, AFRICOM, and the DEA attaché in Nigeria, Mr. Robert Bascoe, for their unwavering support. He pledged the NDLEA's commitment to accountability, transparency, and effective utilization of resources to achieve a safer, drug-free society.
The partnership underscores the shared commitment of both nations to promoting security and combating the global drug menace.
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