Adekunbi Ero
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA) Mohamed Buba Marwa, (NDLEA) Monday June 15, 2026, underscored the critical role legislative support could play in strengthening the legal and institutional frameworks necessary to confront the increasingly sophisticated activities of drug trafficking syndicates in the country even as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics Senator Joseph Ikpea pledged that his committee’s readiness to provide the necessary legislative backing to strengthen the agency’s capacity, improve operational effectiveness, and enhance its ability to discharge its mandate efficiently.
The duo resolved to forge this synergy when Senator Ikpea, who replaced Senator Monday Okphebolo as the representative of Edo Central senatorial district at the upper chamber of the National Assembly, paid a familiarisation visit to the Abuja headquarters of the NDLEA.
The senatorial seat became vacant following Okpebholo’s election as Governor of Edo State September 21, 2024.
Speaking during the maiden visit, Senator Ikpea hailed the NDLEA’s public destruction of confiscated drugs which he noted sends “a strong message to criminal syndicates and drug traffickers that Nigeria remains resolute in its determination to combat illicit drug activities.”
He said the actions “not only prevent the substances from returning to society but also reinforce public confidence in the agency’s transparency, professionalism, and effectiveness.”
Expressing deep appreciation for the dedication, sacrifices, and patriotism displayed daily by NDLEA officers and personnel across the country, the anti-narcotics committee chairman 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, in particular, applauded the agency for the recent destruction of large quantities of seized illicit drugs in Benin City, Edo State, describing the exercise as “a bold demonstration of the NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to ridding Nigerian communities of dangerous narcotic substances.”
Senator Ikpea said the successful operation in Benin City further underscored the remarkable achievements being recorded under the leadership of General Marwa which he said deserved the support and commendation of all well-meaning Nigerians.
He praised the agency’s renewed vigour in pursuing drug traffickers, expanding public awareness campaigns, and intensifying efforts to reduce drug demand across the country.
Noting that drug abuse remained one of the most serious threats facing modern societies, particularly among young people who represent the future of the nation, the senator posited that the consequences of drug abuse extend beyond the individual, affecting families, communities, public health, economic productivity, and national security.
Senator Ikpea insisted that the war against drugs cannot be won by the NDLEA alone, stressing that it is rather “a collective national responsibility that demands sustained commitment, strategic collaboration, and continuous support from all stakeholders.”
He therefore pledged his readiness to support policies and initiatives aimed at strengthening drug prevention programmes, rehabilitation efforts, intelligence gathering, public enlightenment campaigns, and law enforcement operations.
Responding, General Marwa expressed appreciation to Senator Ikpea for what he described as an historic visit, stating that it was a clear demonstration of the Senate Committee’s willingness to work closely with the agency in the collective pursuit of a drug-free Nigeria.
The NDLEA boss, who highlighted some of the agency’s achievements, ongoing initiatives, and operational challenges, reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians from the harmful effects of illicit drugs and ensuring that individuals battling addiction were provided with the support, treatment, and rehabilitation needed to reintegrate successfully into society.
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