The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), has set aggressive operational goals for 2026, charging commanders to intensify efforts to dismantle drug cartels nationwide.
This was disclosed in a statement on Friday by the agency’s Director for Media and Advocacy, Femi Bafemi.
In the statement, while addressing the agency’s leadership, which included members of the Management, Zonal Commanders, heads of all 36 state commands and the FCT, among others, during the agency’s annual review and planning meeting held at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja, Marwa declared that 2026 would be a year of “unprecedented consolidation” in the war against illicit substances.
The statement partly read, “Addressing the Commanders, Marwa emphasised that the Agency has kicked off the year on a strong footing, building on the record-breaking successes of previous years.
“He noted 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 sensitized against the scourge of substance abuse”, he was quoted as saying.
The statement revealed that during the session, Marwa directed the various commands to ensure a seamless execution of the 2026 strategic work plan, saying, “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.”
Reflecting on his tenure’s renewal by the President, the NDLEA boss was said to have credited the agency’s field officers for the public’s increased trust.
“Today, the Agency commands increased respect, both locally and internationally, and you should be proud to identify yourselves anywhere as officers and men of this Agency.
“The renewal of my tenure by the President is largely a reflection of your work. 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,” he was quoted as saying.
He also laid down strict guidelines for the coming months, emphasising that “zero tolerance for compromise” is non-negotiable, saying, “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 further warned commanders against taking unnecessary risks, advising them to ensure thorough surveillance and planning before any operation and request reinforcement where operational capacity is insufficient, rather than risk avoidable casualties.
The NDLEA boss issued other key directives in the statement, instructing that advocacy and sensitisation efforts in schools and communities must be intensified, and 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 was quoted as saying.
In his closing remarks, Marwa was said to have issued a warning to traffickers, stating that there would be “no vacuum or breathing space” for their illicit trade in 2026.
He also reassured Nigerian families and youths that the agency is committed to protecting them from the “drug scourge.”
“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 is a collective responsibility,” the statement concluded.
PUNCH reported in November 2025 that Marwa, who was reappointed by President Bola Tinubu for another five-year term, declared that his second tenure would usher in an even tougher crackdown on illicit drug networks nationwide.
“This second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them. Drugs shall not pass, in or out or within Nigeria,” he said.
