Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has paid glowing tribute to six senior officials of the Agency, describing them as the “unsung heroes” whose dedication and professionalism helped transform the anti-narcotics agency into one of Nigeria’s most respected law enforcement institutions.
Speaking at a send-off ceremony held in Abuja on Thursday, Marwa said the remarkable progress recorded by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over the past five years was made possible by the collective sacrifices of committed officers who worked behind the scenes to strengthen the Agency’s operations.
He noted that the NDLEA’s achievements including record-breaking drug seizures, the dismantling of trafficking networks, expanded rehabilitation efforts, and growing international recognition were the result of teamwork rather than the efforts of one individual.
“This is not simply a day of farewells. It is a day of honour; a day for the Agency to pause, reflect, and say a well-deserved thank you to men who gave the best years of their lives to the war against illicit drugs in our country,” Marwa said.
The NDLEA boss described the departing officers as professionals who served with courage, discipline and integrity during a defining period in the Agency’s history.
Among those honoured was Colonel Murtala Aminu, Marwa’s immediate past Chief of Staff, who is proceeding on an overseas military training programme.
Marwa praised him for bringing discipline, efficiency and administrative excellence to the Chairman’s office.
He also commended Deputy Commander General of Narcotics (DCGN) Ahmed Suleiman Ningi, describing him as a fearless operational leader whose decisions contributed significantly to many of the Agency’s recent successes.
For DCGN Samuel Gadzama, the immediate past Director of Operations and General Investigations and former Commandant of the NDLEA Academy in Jos, Marwa highlighted his role in mentoring and shaping the next generation of narcotics officers through discipline and exemplary leadership.
Marwa praised DCGN Tunde John Omotosin, former Director of Internal Affairs and Provost Marshal, for strengthening internal discipline and institutional integrity within the Agency.
He equally recognised Dr. Stephen Audu Okpe, the pioneer Director of the Directorate of Medical Services, for laying the foundation of the Agency’s healthcare system and improving the welfare of officers.
The NDLEA Chairman also applauded Dr. Daniel Onyezegbe, Commander of the Agency’s Canine Unit, for developing one of the country’s most effective sniffer dog programmes, describing the unit as a critical asset in detecting illicit drugs and solving complex narcotics cases.
Marwa urged the officers to remain ambassadors of the values that defined their careers, including integrity, courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to a drug-free Nigeria.
He also expressed appreciation to their families for supporting them throughout their years of service.
“The uniform may come off, but the values it represents must remain stitched into your character,” he said.
The six officials are leaving the Agency at a time the NDLEA continues to record major operational successes in the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse, with the Agency earning increasing recognition both within Nigeria and internationally.