Lawmakers from Nigeria’s National Assembly have pledged robust support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) as it defends its proposed 2025 budget of N67.5 billion. The agency, led by its Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), is seeking increased financial backing to bolster its operations against drug abuse and trafficking.
During budget defence sessions held with the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs and the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Marwa expressed gratitude to the lawmakers for their consistent support and emphasized the need for sustained collaboration. He highlighted that a significant portion of the proposed budget would address critical infrastructure gaps, particularly the construction of barracks for NDLEA personnel.
Speaking on the matter, Marwa said, “I respectfully ask your good offices to continue to assist in our area of critical needs during the appropriation process. Our commands across the federation are contending with significant challenges, particularly a lack of accommodation.”
He explained that secure housing for personnel is essential to improving morale, operational integrity, and safety amid growing threats.
The NDLEA boss also pointed out that the N16 billion allocated for capital expenditure in the proposed budget lacked funding for ongoing barracks projects. He stressed the urgency of addressing these challenges to protect staff and their families, many of whom currently operate from rented and inadequate facilities.
Marwa praised President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and urged lawmakers to prioritize funding for the agency’s operations, which include intelligence gathering, arrests, and prosecutions. He reiterated the NDLEA’s commitment to tackling drug-related issues head-on, stating, “With your support, we are confident in our ability to enhance our operations and fulfil our mandate of safeguarding the security of our nation.”
House Committee Chairman Abass Adigun affirmed the legislature’s dedication to ensuring adequate funding for the NDLEA. “This committee recognises the critical role the NDLEA plays in safeguarding our communities from the scourge of narcotics and illicit substances,” he said.
Similarly, Senate Committee Chairman on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, commended the agency for its commendable performance in 2024. “We’re all witnesses to the good work you are doing, and we are proud of your performance,” Dankwambo remarked, assuring continued support for the agency in 2025.
The NDLEA’s proposed budget allocates N47.1 billion for personnel costs, N3.38 billion for operational overheads, and N16.97 billion for capital projects.
