Newly-Trained Narcotic Assistants will strengthen Nigeria’s Anti-drug War – NDLEA boss
By Salihu Ali, Abuja
The war against drug abuse and trafficking has gained significant strength with the addition of hundreds of newly trained Narcotic Assistants to the Agency’s workforce.
The Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd) made the declaration at the official passing out parade and closing ceremony of the training of Narcotic Assistants Course 3, on Saturday, at the NDLEA Academy, Kotton Rikus, Jos, Plateau State, North-Central Nigeria.
Marwa, represented by the Agency’s Secretary, Mr. Shadrach Haruna, said, “today’s ceremony signposts yet another of the Agency’s efforts towards the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign and the total eradication of illicit drugs and their effects in Nigeria. In particular, this training and passing out ceremony aligns with my vision of a well-motivated, visible and proactive workforce that is service-ready to meet the dreams and aspirations of the founding fathers of the Agency and that of the nation in general.”
While stating that Narcotic Assistants Course 3 of 2021 is the largest of the cadre and the first-ever course in over 25 years, the NDLEA boss noted the process leading to the training started in 2019 but was put on hold because of the Covid-19 pandemic, which prevented gatherings and engendered global lockdowns across countries and continents.
Call to duty
Marwa stressed that the Agency has lived up to its mandate and the accompanying challenges in the past eight months, adding that the new Narcotic Assistants will be joining their colleagues who are already in the field across Nigeria fighting the drug war.
“The training has prepared you physically, mentally and psychologically for the demanding tasks ahead. You must, henceforth, keep in mind that you are on national assignment in the fight against the drug pandemic,” Marwa stated.
Warning of the dangers ahead, the NDLEA boss told the new officers, “you are going to be assaulted and tempted psychologically and physically, subtly and brashly by merchants of this nefarious trade. You will be offered money and other forms of gratification. I call on you all to cultivate the will, guts and coping skills required to reject these temptations and allow for effective discharge of your duties.”
Fight against illicit drug
The NDLEA Chairman also seized the occasion to remind the new Narcotic Assistants and the public at large that the fight against illicit drug is not half-hearted and will not be compromised, as the Agency more than ever before demands complete loyalty, commitment, sacrifice and dedication from the officers in the pursuit of the nations goal of a drug-free society.
“Since I assumed office, I have demonstrated in word and in action, a desire to up the ante of Drug Enforcement Administration in Nigeria as well as improve staff welfare and better working conditions for the Agency. It is my aspiration that by the time the current series of Basic Training is completed, the NDLEA will be able to establish offices and presence in all the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.
“I charge you all to conduct yourselves as well-trained and disciplined men fighting a just war aimed at ridding the country of the drug scourge,” he said.
He called on Nigerians to join forces with the NDLEA at safeguarding the country against the drug menace.
The ceremony climaxed with awards presentation to the best performing cadets in eight different categories and was attended by a cross-section of the public and service institutions.
