NDLEA’s Joseph Icha Appointed Director at International Police Academy

NDLEA’s Joseph Icha Appointed Director at International Police Academy

The International Police Academy (IPA), New York, has appointed Deputy Commander General (DCG) Joseph Ogirima Icha of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) as Director of International Counter Narcotics Training.

The honorary appointment, according to the IPA Executive Board, recognizes Icha’s professional contributions to law enforcement, security, and academic advancement, as well as his role in strengthening global collaboration against drug abuse and trafficking through training and knowledge exchange.

The IPA is a globally respected institution with presence in the United States, Europe, and more than 140 countries, dedicated to advanced education and research for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilians.

In the official certificate of appointment signed by IPA President, Shuaib Adam, and Executive Director/CEO, Dr. Alexander Jan, Icha was also named an Honorary Member of both the International Police Academy (IPOA) and the UNIPOL International Police University.

DCG Icha currently serves as NDLEA’s Director of Training and Manpower Development at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja, where he has led several initiatives to strengthen the capacity of personnel through advanced training programmes, international partnerships, and reforms in line with global best practices.

Reacting to the development, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the appointment as a testament to the professionalism and international relevance of NDLEA officers.

“This appointment is not just a personal achievement for Icha, but a collective pride for the Agency and indeed the country,” Marwa said. “It shows that the world is watching the reforms and progress being made in Nigeria’s drug law enforcement efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. It is also a challenge to all our officers and men to continue to give their best in the service of our fatherland, knowing that excellence does not go unnoticed.”

Marwa further urged Icha to use the platform to project Nigeria’s commitment to global best practices in drug control and to expand capacity-building initiatives for officers from other countries grappling with similar challenges.

Femi Babafemi
Director, Media & Advocacy
NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja
Wednesday, August 20, 2025