By Suleiman Abubakar MAPSA
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially relocated its headquarters to a new facility in the Jahi area of Abuja. The relocation marks the first phase of the national headquarters project, with full completion expected under the 2025 budgetary provisions.
The new facility was inaugurated on Wednesday, November 26, 2024, during a low-key interdenominational service. Speaking at the event, NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the move as a significant step in transforming the agency into a modern and results-oriented anti-narcotics body.
“I’m glad we have finally moved into this facility after overcoming initial budgetary constraints. Although it is not 100% complete, it is functional enough to accommodate our expanded workforce,” Marwa noted.
He added that the old Gimbiya Street office in Garki, Abuja, would serve as an annex.
Marwa thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support, which he said has been pivotal in enabling the NDLEA to fulfill its mandate of combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
He also commended his predecessor for initiating the headquarters project.
The agency's Secretary, Shadrach Haruna, lauded Marwa’s leadership for significantly advancing the NDLEA’s professionalism, capacity, and international standing.
He highlighted achievements such as increasing staff strength from 5,000 to 15,000, improving officer welfare, and the recent amendment of the agency’s enabling law by the National Assembly.
Prayers were offered for President Tinubu and Nigeria, and a commemorative plaque was unveiled to mark the occasion.
The event underscores the NDLEA’s commitment to strengthening its operations in the ongoing fight against drug cartels.
