NDLEA Seeks Increased NASS Support, Defends ₦67.5B 2025 Budget
The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, has called for enhanced support from the National Assembly (NASS) to strengthen the agency’s capacity in combating drug abuse and trafficking.
Marwa made the appeal during the defense of the NDLEA’s 2025 budget proposal before the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs and the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics in Abuja.
In a statement by NDLEA spokesman Femi Babafemi, Marwa thanked the NASS for its dedication to the fight against drug abuse and expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his consistent encouragement of the agency.
He highlighted the pressing need for increased funding, particularly for ongoing barracks projects aimed at providing secure accommodation for NDLEA personnel.
“The barracks project is critical to our operational efficiency and the safety of our officers and their families. Reports of attacks and killings of our personnel underscore the urgency of this need,” Marwa stated.
The proposed 2025 NDLEA budget totals ₦67.5 billion, allocated as follows:
Recurrent personnel cost: ₦47.1 billion
Recurrent overhead cost: ₦3.38 billion
Capital expenditure: ₦16.9 billion
Marwa emphasized the agency’s challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, sophisticated drug cartels, and the increasing prevalence of drug abuse. He urged for enhanced capital expenditure allocation to address these issues and ensure the continuity of the barracks project.
“The provision of secure accommodation will boost morale, improve operational integrity, and strengthen our capacity to execute our mandate effectively,” he said.
NASS Committees Pledge Support
Chairman of the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs, Rep. Abass Adigun, commended the NDLEA’s efforts and assured the agency of the committee’s commitment to adequate funding.
“This committee recognises the NDLEA’s vital role in safeguarding our communities. We are committed to ensuring efficient allocation of funds with measurable outcomes,” Adigun said.
Similarly, Senate Committee Chairman on Drugs and Narcotics, Sen. Ibrahim Dankwambo, lauded the NDLEA’s performance in 2024 and pledged continued support.
“We are proud of the agency’s achievements and will ensure it is well-resourced to build on this success in 2025,” Dankwambo affirmed.
The NDLEA remains resolute in its mission to create a drug-free Nigeria and tackle the growing menace of narcotics with renewed vigor and collaboration.
