The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially relocated its headquarters to a new facility in the Jahi area of Abuja ¹. The first phase of the project was inaugurated during an interdenominational service on Wednesday.
According to NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Marwa, the new headquarters is a vital step in the agency’s development. Marwa explained that the new facility was necessary to accommodate the agency’s expansion and improve operations.
Marwa stated that despite initial budgetary constraints, the agency was determined to move into the new facility before the end of 2024. He noted that the old head office in Gimbiya, Garki area of the FCT would continue to serve as the headquarters annex.
The new headquarters is expected to be completed with the 2025 budgetary provisions. Marwa expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continued support and encouragement to the agency.
The NDLEA Secretary, Shadrach Haruna, commended Marwa for providing inspiring leadership that has transformed the agency into a world-class organization. Haruna highlighted some of the agency’s achievements since 2021, including increasing staff strength from 5,000 to 15,000.
Other achievements mentioned by Haruna include the promotion of officers, opening up of vacancies, payment of accumulated allowances to staff and widows of fallen officers, and the recent amendment of the agency’s enabling law by the National Assembly.
The relocation of the NDLEA headquarters is expected to enhance the agency’s operations and efficiency. The new facility will also provide a better working environment for staff.
Christian and Islamic prayers were offered for President Tinubu and Nigeria during the inauguration ceremony. A commemorative plaque was also unveiled to mark the event.
The NDLEA’s relocation to its new headquarters marks a significant milestone in the agency’s history and is expected to further boost its efforts to curb substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
