The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), on Saturday, commisioned 2,000 Narcotic Assistants at the NDLEA Academy, Jos, Plateau State. 

Chairman/Chief Executive, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) warned the newly commissioned officers about the repercussions of compromising the agency in the war against drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria. He charged the new personnel to flee from possible inducement and gratification in the line of duty.

He said: "It is pertinent that I repeat at this occasion the advice I have given those who went ahead of you. Beware of the lure of filthy lucre. As you go about your duty, there will be inducement with money and calculated efforts to derail you from doing your duty by drug traffickers, fixers and barons. 

"Never compromise. Do not forget that society needs protection from these bad actors, and any failure in your duty can directly or indirectly jeopardise society including your family. Hence, every encounter with the illicit drug underworld should be a moment of strength and not a moment of weakness.”

He reminded the new officers that they could not have come into the service at a better time. He said the agency is now, more than ever poised for effectiveness.

He said: "Let me assure you that you are coming into the agency at a very good time. You are coming in at a time when the job has become exciting, challenging and gratifying as well. We are presently in an era when we have launched an offensive action to put traffickers and barons on the defensive. 

"We have equally launched War Against Drug Abuse campaign to win over society to our side as our collaborators in the effort to curb illicit drug abuse. We have undertaken a raft of reforms in the past 12 months so much so the agency has regained a vibrancy that gives our officers and men a pride of place among their peers.

“I must also point out that you are a lucky generation of narcotic officers and men because your employment is coming at a time you will be beneficiaries of an enhanced welfare package that includes life insurance and barracks, for which we have received a green light for its construction starting from this year.”

Gen. Marwa was represented at the occasion by his Special Adviser, Col. Yakubu Bako (Rtd). He told the graduating officers that the Federal Government have invested a lot in them and consequently expects more from them in return.

He said the bars of work ethics, discipline and performance have been raised to make the work dynamics very competitive. He said the NDLEA is not a place for indolence. He also wished them a successful and fulfilling career with the Agency.

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