By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
GROWING CONCERNS over staff security and operational infrastructure dominated discussions as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) defended its 2025 budget proposal before the National Assembly. ‘
The agency is requesting increased funding to address inadequate personnel accommodation and operational demands, citing rising threats from drug cartels and other challenges.
During the budget defence on 13 and 14 January 2025 before the House and Senate Committees on Narcotic Drugs, NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), expressed gratitude for the committees’ support but urged for continued assistance.
He highlighted the agency’s allocation of ₦67.5 billion, which includes ₦47.1 billion for personnel costs, ₦3.4 billion for overhead, and ₦16.9 billion for capital expenditure. However, he stressed the inadequacy of the capital budget, particularly for the barracks project, which currently lacks funding.
Marwa emphasised that constructing barracks is essential for staff security and operational efficiency, as many personnel work from rented facilities, exposing them to risks. “These challenges not only affect morale but compromise our ability to combat sophisticated drug cartels effectively,” he said.
The NDLEA currently has over 14,000 officers, whose operational expenses include intelligence gathering, arrests, seizures, investigations, and prosecutions. Despite ongoing reforms, Marwa noted that critical infrastructure gaps remain a barrier to achieving the agency’s mandate.
Lawmakers commended the NDLEA’s performance in 2024 and pledged to support its funding needs. House Committee Chairman Hon Abass Adigun reiterated the importance of the agency’s work, stating, “We are committed to ensuring that public funds are allocated transparently and effectively to enhance the NDLEA’s operations.” Similarly, Senate Committee Chairman Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo praised the agency’s achievements and assured continued support.
Marwa also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s encouragement, emphasising the agency’s commitment to collaborating with the National Assembly to achieve a drug-free Nigeria.
The NDLEA’s request for enhanced funding aims to address its growing challenges, secure its workforce, and improve its capacity to combat illicit drugs across the nation effectively.
