NDLEA LAUNCHES HISTORIC FIREARMS TRAINING AS MARWA STRENGTHENS AGENCY'S FIGHT AGAINST DRUG CARTELS

NDLEA LAUNCHES HISTORIC FIREARMS TRAINING AS MARWA STRENGTHENS AGENCY'S FIGHT AGAINST DRUG CARTELS 
By Jennifer Nwosu 

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has entered a new phase in its' operational history with the commencement of a specialized weapons handling programme and the formal induction of AK-47 rifles and advanced pistols into its' tactical operations, marking the first time such arms will be officially deployed by the Agency in its 36-year history.

In a statement released by the Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the Agency said the initiative reflects the commitment of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), to strengthening the operational capacity of officers confronting increasingly violent drug trafficking syndicates across the country.

The milestone was unveiled on Monday, June 29, 2026, during the inauguration of a specialized Train-the-Trainer Course on Weapon Handling covering the AK-47 Rifle Type 56-1 and HS-9/CF98A Pistols at the NDLEA Academy in Jos, Plateau State. Marwa was represented at the ceremony by his Chief of Staff, Col. Murtala Aminu.
According to the NDLEA, the decision follows the changing nature of drug enforcement operations, with organized drug cartels becoming more sophisticated, heavily armed and increasingly violent. The Agency said the new capability is intended to improve officer safety, strengthen tactical readiness and enhance public protection during high-risk operations.

Marwa acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the political support that made the initiative possible and also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) for facilitating the initial supply of firearms and ammunition required to commence the training programme.
He disclosed that the arms procurement process, initiated in 2023 through the China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), is now in its' final phase, with thousands of rifles, pistols and ammunition scheduled for delivery. A nationwide distribution and accountability framework has already been approved, while the Nigerian Air Force will partner with the Agency to airlift the equipment to NDLEA commands across the country.

The pioneer participants in the Jos training were selected from various state commands based on merit and will serve as master trainers. Upon completion, they will return to their respective commands to conduct a compulsory one-month weapons handling programme for all operational personnel before the firearms are deployed nationwide.

The NDLEA leadership emphasized that discipline, professionalism, safety, ethical conduct and strict adherence to the rules of engagement will remain central to the Agency's firearms policy. Officers were reminded that the introduction of tactical weapons carries significant responsibility and must always be guided by accountability and respect for the rule of law.

Marwa also noted that the Agency has evolved into one of Nigeria's most effective law enforcement institutions, recording unprecedented drug seizures, dismantling major criminal syndicates and prosecuting high-profile traffickers. He described the induction of tactical firearms as another significant step in strengthening the country's fight against organized drug crime while ensuring greater protection for officers operating on the frontlines.

The NDLEA said the initiative represents a new chapter in its' institutional development as it continues to modernize its operations to confront emerging security threats posed by transnational drug trafficking networks.

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