The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), has granted special promotions to eight officers from the agency’s Marine Command for their exceptional bravery and professionalism during a recent anti-drug operation. The officers successfully intercepted boats carrying illicit drugs from Ghana to Nigeria via the Lagos waterways.
The operation, which took place in the early hours of August 23, 2024, was based on actionable intelligence. The officers involved in the operation were identified as Dick Aaron Dick, Alabi Mayowa, Gabriel Ubokikwan, Aso John, Abdul Sule, Victor Sonpano Ngabolo, Jonah Sule, and Membe Gabriel.
During a ceremony held in Abuja on Thursday, Marwa decorated the officers with their new ranks and presented them with commendation letters, praising their courage in preventing the smuggling of 60 jumbo bags of illicit drugs into Nigeria.
Marwa emphasized the importance of the officers’ actions, stating, “Every time we have a breakthrough, it tells the world a story about the new NDLEA we are working hard to build. It also reinforces our conviction as an organization that we are on the right track. So, an occasion such as this is a source of pride for me.”
He noted that despite facing significant challenges during the operation, the officers remained resilient and focused, successfully recovering 60 bags of Ghanaian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis weighing 2,400 kilograms. Additionally, they arrested a 30-year-old Ghanaian suspect, Hambo Tete, and seized the boat used in the smuggling attempt.
Marwa highlighted that the special promotions are part of the broader reforms he has implemented over the past three years to motivate NDLEA personnel and enhance their performance. These reforms include the introduction of bi-annual Command Awards and special promotions for deserving officers.
Speaking on behalf of the promoted officers, team leader Aaron Dick expressed gratitude to Marwa for his leadership and the recognition of their efforts. He stated that the special promotion would not only motivate them to continue their exemplary service but also inspire other NDLEA personnel to strive for excellence in their duties.
