Drug war: Marwa sets 2026 operational targets for NDLEA Commanders

The Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa has set the tone for the 2026 operational goals with a high-level strategic meeting with Directors, Commanders and Heads of formations.

Marwa also charged them to sustain the current momentum in the war against illicit substances by going all out to dismantle drug cartels and intensify sensitisation efforts across the country.

The NDLEA boss gave the charge at the Annual Review and Planning Meeting held at the NDLEA National Headquarters on Friday in Abuja.

Our correspondent reports that the top echelon of the agency at the meeting included the members of the management; Zonal Commanders, Commanders from the 36 States and the FCT.

Others were: Commanders of Seaports and International Airports; the Marine Unit Commander; Commanders of the Strike Force and the Special Operations Units, among others.

Addressing the commanders, Marwa emphasised that the agency had kicked off the year on a strong footing, building on the record-breaking successes of previous years.

The NDLEA chairman stated that 2026 would be a year of unprecedented consolidation especially in the areas of 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: we are here to completely disrupt the financial lifelines of drug cartels and ensure that every community in Nigeria is sensitised to the scourge of substance abuse,”he declared.

During the session, Marwa directed the various commands to ensure a seamless execution of the 2026 strategic work plan.

He said, “When I first assumed office, I made certain declarations about the direction of this agency and the resolve to confront drug barons and kingpins.

“Looking back, the progress achieved is the result of your collective efforts, and all glory belongs to God.

“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 and aim for even greater outcomes.”

Marwa said that the agency was now commanding increased respect, both locally and internationally, adding,” you should be proud to identify yourselves anywhere as officers and men of this Agency.”

Marwa said that the renewal of his tenure by President Bola Tinubu was largely a reflection of the work of the officers and men of the agency.

He said, “while I may issue directives, real impact comes from seizures made, arrests effected, and convictions secured in the field.

“Without these results, there would be nothing to communicate to the public. For this reason, I sincerely appreciate your diligence, commitment, and hard work.

“This year, we are here to set clear targets. Directors have already submitted their proposed objectives, but these will only be complete with input from commanders.

“Discipline and professional conduct must remain central to our operations.Operational professionalism and zero tolerance for compromise are non-negotiable.”

Marwa urged that commanders must ensure thorough surveillance and planning before any operations.

He added that where operational capacity was insufficient,.the commanders must request reinforcement rather than risk avoidable casualties.

Marwa said that advocacy and sensitisation efforts had recorded encouraging progress, particularly in schools and communities nationwide saying that the efforts must be intensified.

“State Drug Control Committees must be strengthened across all states, with efforts extended down to local government and ward levels.

“This year, all states must have functional committees.

“I urge all commanders to remain focused, professional, and committed to the mandate of the Agency.

“Together, we will continue to strengthen our impact and uphold the confidence reposed in us,”he said.

The NDLEA boss reassured the public that the agency remained more committed than ever to protecting Nigerian youths and families from the drug scourge.

He said the agency’s strong footing at the start of 2026 was a signal to drug cartels that there will be no vacuum or breathing space for their illicit trade.

He encouraged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to the agency, reminding all that the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking was a collective responsibility.