By HeapNews
The Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mohamed Buba Marwa, has reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing the welfare of officers to ensure they remain physically and mentally fit for the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
Speaking at the commissioning of a state-of-the-art fitness center at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja, Marwa emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking is not just a battle of intelligence and strategy—it is also one that demands physical endurance, agility, and resilience,” he said. “The nature of our work places extraordinary demands on our bodies and minds. From long hours of surveillance and enforcement operations to high-risk engagements, we must always be in top form to protect our society from the dangers of illicit drugs.”
Marwa stressed that regular exercise is not a luxury but a necessity, noting that a physically fit officer is better equipped to handle stress, react swiftly in the field, and make sound decisions under pressure. “Beyond operational readiness, fitness also promotes overall health, reducing the risk of lifestyle-related diseases and enhancing mental sharpness,” he added.
Describing the new facility as “more than just a gym,” Marwa said it represents an investment in NDLEA personnel and hinted at plans to establish similar fitness centers across zonal and state commands as funds become available.
“I urge every personnel of the agency within Abuja to take full advantage of this facility. Let it not be a mere structure but a place of daily transformation, where we strengthen not only our muscles but also our resolve to serve with excellence,” he said.
The NDLEA chairman called on officers to see the commissioning of the facility as a reminder of the high demands of their work. “Our work requires the best version of ourselves physically, mentally, and professionally. Together, let us continue to build an NDLEA that is strong, resilient, and ever-ready to fulfill its mandate,” he concluded.