Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Mohamed Buba Marwa, has lauded the Nigerian Armed Forces for their ongoing efforts to curb banditry in the North West and other security challenges across the country.
During a courtesy visit from Major General Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Marwa emphasized the need for public support for the military, especially in light of a recent viral video showing bandits celebrating the ‘capture’ of a military vehicle in Zamfara State.
Marwa urged Nigerians to rally behind the armed forces, stating, “Man for man, officer to officer, soldier to soldier—the Nigerian Armed Forces personnel are an equal or better match to any of their colleagues anywhere in the world.” He praised the military’s past successes, including their role in peacekeeping missions and their ability to contain the Boko Haram insurgency, adding that with time, they will also overcome the current banditry crisis.
General Laka, in his remarks, highlighted the strong connection between drug abuse, crime, and terrorism, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the NDLEA and NCTC. “We know that drugs fuel various forms of criminality, including terrorism by providing financial resources and impairing judgment,” Laka stated, stressing the need for a holistic approach to combating these threats.
The NDLEA Boss also emphasized the importance of national support for the armed forces, suggesting that this support could include scholarships for the children of fallen soldiers and empowerment grants for their families. He also expressed confidence in General Laka’s ability to lead the NCTC effectively.