*Investment in Your Welfare is a Call to Higher Responsibility – AGF Fagbemi Charges Personnel *Facility Symbolizes Agency’s Com...
*Investment in Your Welfare is a Call to Higher Responsibility – AGF Fagbemi Charges Personnel
*Facility Symbolizes Agency’s Commitment to Staff Well-being, Determination to Build a Safer Nigeria – Marwa
By Muh'd Shafi'u Saleh
Thirty-five years after the establishment of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Federal Government on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, commissioned the agency's first barracks in Yola, Adamawa State. The facility, designed to provide office and residential accommodation for NDLEA officers, was described as a well-deserved investment in personnel welfare and a call to greater responsibility and unwavering dedication to duty.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, highlighted the significance of the barracks, which includes modern administrative offices, detention facilities, secure storage, and residential accommodations. He emphasized that the facility is not merely a physical structure but a critical investment in human capital and a testament to President Bola Tinubu's commitment to creating a secure and dignified environment for NDLEA officers and their families.
According to Fagbemi, “The role of NDLEA in our society cannot be overstated. The fight against drug abuse is a battle for our nation’s future—a mission to protect our youth from the devastating effects of substance abuse and eliminate the violence and destruction linked to the illegal drug trade. This barracks is more than a place of residence; it is a fortress of resilience and a beacon of hope for our nation’s future.”
Reaffirming his commitment to supporting the agency, the Minister added: “Justice and law enforcement are deeply intertwined. This facility is a crucial component of the rule of law—ensuring that those tasked with upholding our laws are protected, empowered, and equipped to carry out their duties effectively. Justice begins with those who enforce it, and it is our collective responsibility to provide them with the necessary resources to succeed.”
He urged NDLEA officers who will reside in the barracks to remain steadfast in their service to the nation. “This investment in your welfare is a call to higher responsibility, requiring unwavering dedication and commitment. Today’s commissioning is not just about inaugurating a physical structure; it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to building a society free from the perils of drug abuse and its destructive impact. Through concerted effort and determination, we will secure a brighter future for Nigeria,” Fagbemi stated.
The Minister acknowledged the role of former President Muhammadu Buhari, under whose leadership the project was approved, and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for bringing it to fruition. He also commended Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his cooperation in ensuring the project’s success, as well as National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for his support in enhancing NDLEA’s operational capabilities.
“I must acknowledge President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law, institutional empowerment, and ensuring that critical agencies like the NDLEA have the resources they need to succeed. The foundational contributions of the Buhari administration must also be recognized, as it was during his tenure that this initiative was approved and set in motion,” Fagbemi said.
He also praised NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), describing him as a “dynamic leader” who has revitalized the agency’s operational framework with dedication and vision.
In his remarks, NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) emphasized the significance of the barracks, particularly in enhancing the safety of personnel 35 years after the agency's establishment.
“This year marks NDLEA’s 35th anniversary. Over the years, the lack of dedicated accommodation for our officers has exposed them and their families to risks. Tragically, some personnel have been tracked to their homes and murdered. This underscores the urgency of providing secure housing for our staff,” Marwa stated.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for his continued support, Marwa said, “Mr. President, your administration’s unwavering commitment to security, institutional strengthening, and the welfare of law enforcement personnel inspires us all. We are grateful to be beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Marwa described the Yola barracks as a reflection of NDLEA’s commitment to personnel welfare, safety, and operational efficiency.
“This facility, situated on an 18-hectare site in Kwanan Waya, includes office structures, accommodations, and auxiliary facilities. The administrative section houses NDLEA’s Adamawa State Command, a detention facility, a state-of-the-art exhibit room, watchtowers, and operational pavilions.
“The residential section comprises lodges for the state and zonal commanders, 80 one-bedroom terrace flats, 120 two-bedroom semi-detached flats, and 60 three-bedroom semi-detached flats.
“The auxiliary facilities feature enhanced security, a generator house for uninterrupted power supply, parking spaces, a parade ground, a service bay, and a perimeter fence. This state-of-the-art facility is a testament to our determination to win the fight against drug abuse and trafficking. It symbolizes our unwavering commitment to the well-being of our personnel and a safer Nigeria,” Marwa added.
In his address, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri commended President Tinubu, Marwa, and other stakeholders for their vision and commitment to the barracks project.
“This barracks is a testament to their dedication to safeguarding our nation, particularly our youth—the leaders of tomorrow—from the dangers of illicit drugs. This facility is not just about infrastructure; it fortifies our collective resolve to protect our prosperity and ensure peace and stability,” he said.
Speaking through AIG Rex Dundun, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu lauded the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing the working conditions of security agencies.
“This milestone underscores the government’s dedication to providing a conducive environment for national security agencies to thrive. The NDLEA plays a crucial role in protecting our nation’s health, safety, and well-being by combating drug trafficking and abuse. I commend Chairman Marwa and his team for their tireless efforts in leading this fight,” Ribadu stated.
He encouraged NDLEA personnel to continue demonstrating courage, resilience, and professionalism, noting that the new barracks is a reflection of the government's recognition of their sacrifices.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, emphasized that NDLEA officers require motivation and adequate facilities to carry out their duties effectively.
“The job of NDLEA operatives requires a mix of humanity, detection, and enforcement. This project enhances job satisfaction, boosts morale, and strengthens the agency’s capacity to deliver on its mandate,” Dankwambo stated.
Similarly, House of Representatives Committee Chairman on Narcotic Drugs, Hon. Abass Adigun, represented by his deputy, Hon. Idris Dankawu, reiterated the legislature’s commitment to improving NDLEA’s funding, working conditions, and operational capacity.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha, Senator Francis Fadahunsi, National Assembly members from Adamawa State, and first-class traditional rulers.
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