Marwa warns drug cartels: Quit illicit trade or face hard time

Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), has warned drug barons and trafficking cartels to quit the illicit trade or face a more aggressive crackdown as he begins his second five-year tenure.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reappointed Marwa on Friday, November 14, 2025.

Addressing jubilant staff at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, Marwa said his renewed mandate signals tougher operations against drug syndicates.

“The cartels haven’t seen anything yet. This second tenure will be hell and bleak for them.

“Drugs shall not pass, in or out of Nigeria,” he said.

Marwa thanked President Tinubu, the Attorney General of the Federation, the Minister of Finance, and the Agency’s local and international partners for supporting NDLEA’s efforts.

He urged those involved in drug trafficking—especially cannabis growers—to embrace legitimate ventures, noting that NDLEA’s Alternative Development Unit is ready to assist them.

He warned that those who refuse will face arrest, asset seizure and prosecution.

Marwa also reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to drug demand reduction, announcing expanded rehabilitation efforts.

The agency operates 30 rehab centres, with seven more to be completed under the 2025 budget—ensuring one rehab centre per state.

He commended the Ministers of Health and Education for supporting NDLEA’s initiatives, including mandatory drug testing for new tertiary institution students.