The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has officially commenced the formal introduction of AK-47 rifles and advanced pistols into its operational architecture.
The Chairman of the Agency, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa, Rtd, disclosed this during the formal inauguration of a specialised Train-the-Trainer Course on Weapon Handling, AK-47 Rifle Type 56-1 and HS-9/CF98A Pistols, at the NDLEA Academy in Jos, Plateau State.
Femi Babafemi, Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, in a statement, said Marwa, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Col. Murtala Aminu, noted that the development marks a critical milestone in the 36-year history of the Agency, driven by the changing dynamics of the war against drug trafficking in Nigeria.
“The nature of the war we fight has evolved,” Marwa stated, adding that “Drug trafficking organisations are no longer mere commercial criminal enterprises; they are armed, organised, and ruthless. Our officers face increasing danger in the field, and it would be unconscionable for this agency to send men and women into harm’s way without the tools and training to protect themselves and the public they serve. This programme is, therefore, not just about firearms; it is about the preservation of lives and the projection of institutional strength,” the statement said.
Providing insights into the arms procurement, Marwa revealed that the process, which began in 2023 through the China North Industries Corporation, NORINCO, has reached its final stage.
Thousands of procured arms and ammunition are scheduled for imminent delivery, with a precise distribution and accountability plan already approved.
The NDLEA is also partnering with the Nigerian Air Force to facilitate the strategic airlift of these assets across its commands nationwide.
“The ongoing course is designed to produce pioneer master trainers. Carefully selected from various commands based on merit, these pioneer participants will return to their respective formations to lead a mandatory, comprehensive one-month training programme for all personnel before the weapons are operationally deployed.
“The weight of that responsibility should not be lost on you. You are the first. You are the standard-bearers. The operational culture, the safety ethos, the professional discipline that will define how the NDLEA handles weapons, all of that begins here, with you, in this academy, on this day,” he stated.
Marwa charged the participants to maintain the highest level of professionalism. According to him, “First, embrace discipline as your bedrock. Weapons handling is not a privilege; it is a grave responsibility. Every firearm must be treated with the seriousness it demands, at all times, in all circumstances.
Marwa expressed happiness over the transformation of NDLEA into a highly professionalised and feared adversary to drug lords, emphasising that the induction of the tactical arms represents a new chapter of honour and enhanced security for the nation.