Ikpea Media network
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s fight against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse, following a familiarisation visit by the committee’s chairman, Senator Joseph Ikpea, to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
During the visit on Monday, June 15, 2026, Senator Ikpea assured the NDLEA of continued legislative support aimed at enhancing the agency’s operational capacity and effectiveness in carrying out its mandate.
The senator, who was received by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), and members of the agency’s management team, commended the significant progress recorded by the NDLEA under Marwa’s leadership.
He noted that the agency had undergone remarkable transformation in recent years, citing its intensified crackdown on drug traffickers, expansion of public enlightenment programmes, and efforts to reduce drug demand across the country.
Senator Ikpea particularly applauded the agency’s public destruction of seized narcotics, describing the exercise as a powerful deterrent to criminal elements. According to him, such actions send “a strong message to criminal syndicates and drug traffickers that Nigeria remains resolute in its determination to combat illicit drug activities.”
He added that the destruction exercises “not only prevent the substances from returning to society but also reinforce public confidence in the agency’s transparency, professionalism, and effectiveness.”
The lawmaker also praised NDLEA officers and personnel nationwide for their dedication and sacrifices in safeguarding communities from the dangers of illicit drugs. He commended their relentless efforts in “intercepting illicit drugs, dismantling trafficking networks, reducing drug demand, and creating awareness of the dangers associated with substance abuse.”
Ikpea singled out the recent destruction of large quantities of seized drugs in Benin City, Edo State, describing it as “a bold demonstration of the NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to ridding Nigerian communities of dangerous narcotic substances.”
He stated that the successful operation further reflected the achievements being recorded under General Marwa’s leadership and deserved the support of all Nigerians.
The senator expressed concern over the growing challenge of drug abuse, particularly among young people, stressing that the menace poses serious threats to families, communities, public health, economic productivity and national security.
While emphasising the importance of collective action, Ikpea said the fight against drug abuse and trafficking could not be left to the NDLEA alone, insisting that it is “a collective national responsibility that demands sustained commitment, strategic collaboration, and continuous support from all stakeholders.”
He therefore pledged to support policies and programmes designed to strengthen drug prevention initiatives, rehabilitation services, intelligence gathering, public awareness campaigns and law enforcement operations.
Responding, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig.-Gen. Marwa (retd), thanked Senator Ikpea for what he described as an historic visit. He noted that the visit demonstrated the readiness of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics to work closely with the agency in advancing the goal of a drug-free Nigeria.
Marwa highlighted some of the agency’s achievements, ongoing programmes and operational challenges, while reaffirming the NDLEA’s commitment to protecting Nigerians from the harmful effects of illicit drugs. He also stressed the importance of providing treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration support for individuals struggling with drug addiction.
Observers described the visit as timely and strategic, especially at a period when concerns over substance abuse among young Nigerians continue to attract widespread attention.
They noted that stronger collaboration between the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics and the NDLEA could further strengthen the country’s anti-drug campaign and contribute significantly to building a safer, healthier and more productive society.l
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