Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has taken a major step towards strengthening its operational capacity with the inauguration of its first-ever specialised weapons handling training and the induction of thousands of tactical firearms into its operations.
The development marks a significant turning point in the agency’s 36-year history, reflecting its transition to a more robust law enforcement institution equipped to confront increasingly armed and violent drug trafficking syndicates.
Speaking on Monday at the inauguration of the Train-the-Trainer Course on Weapon Handling at the NDLEA Academy in Jos, Plateau State, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), described the initiative as a strategic response to the changing nature of organised drug crime.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Col. Murtala Aminu, Marwa said drug trafficking organisations have evolved into heavily armed and well-coordinated criminal networks, making it imperative for NDLEA personnel to possess the skills and equipment needed to safely execute their duties.
“Drug trafficking organisations are no longer mere commercial criminal enterprises; they are armed, organised, and ruthless. It would be unconscionable to send our officers into harm’s way without the tools and training to protect themselves and the public they serve,” he said.
Marwa announced that the agency has begun the formal induction of AK-47 rifles and advanced pistols into its operational inventory following the near completion of a procurement process initiated in 2023 through the China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO).
He disclosed that thousands of rifles, pistols and ammunition would soon be deployed across NDLEA commands nationwide under a carefully designed accountability framework, while the Nigerian Air Force will assist in transporting the equipment to operational formations.
The NDLEA boss attributed the milestone to the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose administration, he said, has prioritised strengthening the agency’s operational capabilities.
He also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser for providing the initial consignment of firearms and ammunition that made the commencement of the training possible.
According to Marwa, the pioneer participants of the Jos course were selected from commands across the country based on merit and will become master trainers responsible for conducting mandatory weapons handling courses for all NDLEA personnel before the firearms are deployed for operations.
He urged the participants to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, safety and accountability, stressing that firearms should only be used responsibly and in strict compliance with the law and established rules of engagement.
Marwa said the agency’s remarkable achievements in recent years including record drug seizures, the dismantling of criminal networks and successful prosecutions have positioned the NDLEA as one of Nigeria’s most formidable law enforcement institutions.
He noted that the introduction of tactical weapons represents the next phase of the agency’s evolution and will further enhance its ability to protect officers and effectively combat sophisticated drug trafficking organisations.
Why the Development Matters
The inauguration of the weapons handling programme is widely regarded as one of the most significant operational reforms in the history of the NDLEA. For the first time since its establishment in 1989, the agency is institutionalising comprehensive firearms training while integrating tactical weapons into its operations.
The move is expected to improve officer safety during high-risk operations, strengthen the agency’s response to violent drug cartels, boost operational efficiency and reinforce Nigeria’s fight against organised drug trafficking and related transnational crimes.
With the initiative, the NDLEA signals its readiness to match the evolving tactics of criminal networks with enhanced professionalism, improved tactical capability and greater operational resilience.