The Federal Government has commissioned the first-ever barracks for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Yola, Adamawa State, 35 years after the agency’s establishment.
NDLEA Spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, in a statement disclosed that the facility will provide both office spaces and residential accommodation for NDLEA personnel.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on February 18, 2025, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, described the barracks as a critical investment in human capital and a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of NDLEA officers and their families.
He emphasized that the facility symbolizes the administration’s resolve to create a secure and dignified environment for those fighting against drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria.
The AGF, who said the role of NDLEA in the society cannot be overstated, stated that the barracks is more than a place of residence but a fortress of resilience and a beacon of hope for the nation’s future, while urging NDLEA personnel to remain dedicated to their duties.
While commending former President Muhammadu Buhari under whose leadership the project was approved and set in motion, the Minister praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for aiding the dream into fruition, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa state for his exemplary cooperation and support in ensuring that the project was executed in a conducive and harmonious environment, just as he appreciated the support of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu towards the operational successes of NDLEA.
In his remarks, Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) who emphasized the significance of the barracks project to the safety of the Agency’s personnel 35 years after its establishment, said the absence of dedicated accommodation for officers has led to challenges, including exposure to risks for them and their families.
He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support and belief in the NDLEA mandate.
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.
The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in his remarks presented by AIG Rex Dundun said the milestone underscores the federal government’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for national security agencies to thrive.
Also speaking, Chairman Senate Committee Chairman on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo noted that the job of the officers and operatives in the NDLEA requires a mix of humanity, detection and enforcement, which requires the provision of adequate motivation for the workforce.
Hence, this project will collectively, among other things, build a seamless organization which is people-centered, motivating the workforce, creating job satisfaction, and also address service delivery challenges.”
House of Reps Committee Chairman on Narcotic Drugs, Honourable Abass Adigun represented by the deputy chairman of the committee, Honourable Idris Dankawu said ensuring the safety, security, and welfare of NDLEA personnel is not just a responsibility but a necessity, adding that the House of Representatives remains “steadfast in advocating for a better funding, improving working conditions, and enhancing operational capacity for the Agency.
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.
The accommodation includes lodges for the state and zonal commanders, 80 one-bedroom terrace flats, 120 two-bedroom semi-detached flats, and 60 three-bedroom semi-detached flats.
The auxiliary facilities comprised enhanced security features, a generator house for uninterrupted power supply, parking spaces, a parade ground, a service bay, and a perimeter fence.
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