The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), has warned drug barons and trafficking networks to brace for an even tougher clampdown as he begins his second five-year tenure.

Marwa, who was reappointed by President Bola Tinubu on Friday, November 14, 2025, issued the warning while addressing jubilant NDLEA personnel who gathered at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja to celebrate the announcement. His reappointment was confirmed in a statement released on Saturday, November 15, 2025, by the NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.

Speaking to the crowd, Marwa vowed that the next phase of the agency’s operations would be relentlessly aggressive.
“This second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them. Drugs shall not pass, in or out or within Nigeria,” he declared.

He expressed surprise at the warm reception, thanking the workforce for their dedication and acknowledging the recognition from President Tinubu.
“We thank the President and Commander-in-Chief for the special recognition of our collective efforts and the new mandate to continue the war against drug abuse and trafficking,” he said.

Marwa also appreciated the support of the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and several international partners who, he noted, have played vital roles in the agency’s achievements.

Issuing a stern warning to drug cartels, he urged traffickers and cannabis cultivators to abandon illicit trade:
“This is the right time for them to drop that criminal business and face something legitimate.”

He highlighted the NDLEA’s Alternative Development Unit, which provides legal livelihood options for offenders, but cautioned that anyone who persists will face severe consequences.
“You will be arrested, the drugs will be seized, and your assets will be confiscated. You will come out from jail to find nothing left,” he warned.

Marwa reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to drug-demand reduction and announced expanded rehabilitation initiatives. He said the NDLEA’s 30 rehabilitation centres will receive increased support, with seven new centres set for completion under the 2025 budget—ensuring every state has access to drug treatment facilities.

He also noted improvements in collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Education, including the recent approval of drug tests for students upon admission into tertiary institutions.
“With this, we can catch them young before addiction sets in,” he said.

Marwa concluded with prayers for the president, NDLEA supporters, and the agency’s personnel as he embarks on what he described as a more aggressive phase in Nigeria’s war against drugs.