Leading a strong federal government delegation to inaugurate the multi-billion Naira office complex and barracks for officers and men of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), charged personnel of the agency to demonstrate higher responsibility and unwavering commitment in the discharge of their duties.
He added that the facility symbolises the agency’s commitment to staff well-being and its determination to build a safer Nigeria for all.
Stating that, after thirty-five years since the establishment of the NDLEA, the Federal Government, on February 18, 2025, commissioned the first barracks to provide office and residential accommodation for officers, men, and women of the anti-narcotics body.
“This is a well-deserved investment in your welfare, which calls for your higher responsibility and unwavering dedication to duty,” he said.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the first NDLEA barracks in Yola, Adamawa State, the minister stated, “This facility, which includes modern administrative offices, detention facilities, secure storage, and residential accommodations, is not just a physical structure but a critical investment in human capital and a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s resolve to create an environment where NDLEA officers and their families can live and thrive with dignity and security.”
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According to him, “The role of NDLEA in our society cannot be overstated. The fight against drug abuse is a fight for our nation’s future.
“It is a battle to protect our youth from the devastating effects of substance abuse and to rid our communities of the violence and destruction that often accompany the illegal drug trade.
“This barracks, therefore, is more than a place of residence; it is a fortress of resilience and a beacon of hope for our nation’s future.”
Prince Fagbemi reassured the agency of his continued commitment to supporting its work, emphasizing his personal conviction about the intersection between justice and law enforcement.
He noted that the facility is a critical component of the rule of law—ensuring that those tasked with upholding the law are protected, empowered, and equipped to carry out their duties effectively.
He urged NDLEA officers who will inhabit the facility to remain steadfast in their service. “I urge the officers who will call this facility home to remain steadfast in their service to their motherland.
“The nation looks to you not only as enforcers of the law but as protectors of our shared hope for a safer, healthier society.
“Together, through concerted effort and unwavering determination, we will secure the promise of a better and brighter Nigeria for all,” the minister stated.
While commending former President Muhammadu Buhari, under whose leadership the project was approved and initiated, the minister praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for bringing the dream to fruition.
He also commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State for his exemplary cooperation and support in ensuring that the project was executed in a conducive and harmonious environment.
Adding that the project, which was conceptualized and driven by Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), the Chairman and Chief Executive of NDLEA, reflects the forward-thinking leadership that has defined his tenure in the agency.
“The establishment of this barracks is a long-awaited yet timely endeavor. It aligns perfectly with the vision of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to rebuild every facet of the Nigerian state.”
In his remarks, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), emphasized the significance of the barracks project to the safety of the agency’s personnel, 35 years after its establishment.
“This year marks the 35th anniversary of NDLEA. Over the years, the absence of dedicated accommodation for our officers has led to challenges, including exposure to risks for them and their families.
“Tragically, quite a number of our personnel have been trailed to their houses and murdered.”
Such incidents emphasize the urgency of providing secure housing for NDLEA personnel. Marwa expressed profound gratitude to the President for his continued support and belief in the agency’s mandate.
“Mr. President, your administration’s unwavering commitment to improving security, strengthening institutions, and ensuring the welfare of law enforcement personnel inspires us all.”
Marwa said, “This facility, situated on an 18-hectare site in Kwanan Waya, reflects our commitment to the safety, welfare, and operational efficiency of our personnel.
“The Yola barracks include office structures, accommodation, and auxiliary facilities. The office structures consist of a modern administrative building for the NDLEA Adamawa State Command, a detention facility, a state-of-the-art exhibit room, watchtowers, and operational pavilions.
“The accommodation includes 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 comprise enhanced security features, a generator house for uninterrupted power supply, parking spaces, a parade ground, a service bay, and a perimeter fence.”
The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in his remarks presented by AIG Rex Dundun, stated, “This milestone underscores the federal government’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for our national security agencies to thrive.
“The NDLEA plays a critical role in safeguarding our nation’s health, safety, and well-being by combating the menace of drug trafficking and abuse.
“I laud the NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and his management team for their tireless efforts in leading the charge against drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria.”
There were goodwill messages from the Governor of Adamawa State, the National Assembly, and other critical stakeholders.
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