The House of Representatives Committee Chairman on Narcotic Drugs, Rep. Abass Adigun (Agboworin), on Tuesday, stated that ensuring the safety, security, and welfare of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency personnel is not just a responsibility but a matter of necessity.
The two-term lawmaker stated this while speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the first NDLEA barracks in Yola, Adamawa state, saying that the facility symbolizes the agency’s commitment to staff wellbeing and determination to build a safer Nigeria.
Represented by the deputy chairman of the committee, Hon. Idris Dankawu, the lawmaker said that admitted that the House of Representatives remains “steadfast in advocating for a better funding, improving working conditions, and enhancing operational capacity for the Agency.”
Agboworin, however, urged the NDLEA officers who will inhabit the facility to remain steadfast in their service.
In his remarks, Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) emphasized the significance of the barracks project to the safety of the Agencys personnel 35 years after its establishment.
He said, “This year marks the 35th anniversary of NDLEA. Over the years, the absence of dedicated accommodation for our officers has led to challenges, including exposure to risks for them and their families.
“Tragically, quite a number of our personnel have been trailed to their houses and murdered. Such incidents emphasise the urgency of providing secure housing for our personnel.”
He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support and belief in the NDLEA mandate.
“Mr. President, your administrations unwavering commitment to improving security, strengthening institutions, and ensuring the welfare of law enforcement personnel inspires us all. We are thankful for being beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he stated.
In his message at the occasion, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri commended President Tinubu, Marwa and other stakeholders for their foresight, vision, and commitment to the barracks project.
“This barracks is a testament of their unwavering dedication to save-guarding our nation and its people, particularly our youth, who are our valuable assets and leaders of tomorrow from the many illicit drugs. The establishment of this facility is not merely about bricks and mortar,” he stated.
Other dignitaries at the ceremony include former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, Senator Francis Fadahunsi, members of the National Assembly from Adamawa state, first class traditional rulers from across the state, among others.
