HURIWA Commends NDLEA’s Remarkable Achievements, Calls for National “Thank You Day”
Oru Leonard
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has issued a resounding commendation to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), for its outstanding efforts in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse under the leadership of Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd). This accolade comes in light of a recent series of significant milestones and collaborative efforts reported by the NDLEA, including a drastic reduction in the number of Nigerians imprisoned in Thailand for drug-related offenses.
In a strong-worded press statement issued today, HURIWA is a statement made available to News Dot Africa by Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko
National Coordinator on June 4, 2024, stated that under the inspiring leadership of Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), the NDLEA, has made substantial progress in enhancing the country’s image globally and securing the safety of its citizens. The foremost civil rights advocacy group enthused that these remarkable milestones deserve nationwide celebration and recognition, proposing a national “Thank You Day” to honour the agency and other high-performing government bodies.
“One of the most notable accomplishments of the NDLEA is the dramatic reduction in the number of Nigerians incarcerated in Thailand. During a recent visit to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja, Mr. Kriwat Pharmorabuta, Charge d’affaires and Deputy Head of Mission of the Royal Thai Embassy in Nigeria, lauded the NDLEA for its rigorous efforts. He noted a substantial decrease from approximately 800 to less than 200 Nigerian prisoners in Thai prisons, attributing this decline to the Agency’s stringent measures against drug trafficking. Mr. Pharmorabuta’s commendation underscores the international recognition of NDLEA’s success in this area, reflecting positively on Nigeria’s global standing.
“Moreover, Mr. Pharmorabuta underscored the vital partnership between the Thai Embassy and the NDLEA in visa clearance processes. He emphasized the Thai government’s reliance on NDLEA certificates when granting visas to Nigerian applicants, citing the agency’s reputation for thorough documentation and verification. The NDLEA’s meticulous procedures provide a high level of assurance, with NDLEA certificates reportedly serving as a priority document for Thai visa issuance.
“Further cementing its global reputation, an NDLEA officer, Francis Ameh Igonoh, recently emerged as the 2024 winner of the prestigious International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) Outstanding Operational Success Award. This accolade underscores the agency’s dedication to combating illicit drug trafficking and highlights the significant contributions of its officers. Brig Gen Marwa’s decision to grant a special promotion to Igonoh, elevating him to the rank of Assistant Commander of Narcotics, reflects the agency’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence within its ranks.
“Again, the NDLEA’s integrity was put to the test recently when officers apprehended a couple involved in a large-scale cocaine trafficking operation. The suspects, Bolanle and Olayinka Dauda, were reportedly arrested in a joint operation with the DEA, leading to the seizure of 57.5 kilograms of cocaine. Notably, the officers rejected a bribe of N6 million offered by the traffickers, demonstrating the Agency’s unwavering commitment to ethical conduct. Such acts of integrity deserve national honours to reinforce the values of honesty and dedication within public service”, HURIWA praised.
In light of these outstanding achievements, HURIWA called on all Nigerians to celebrate the significant milestones being steadily achieved by the Marwa-led NDLEA, proposing the designation of a “Thank You Day to NDLEA” to honor the Agency and other high-performing government bodies. The association clarified that on such a day, Nigerians at home, at work, and abroad should spend five minutes saying, “Thank you, NDLEA. Please keep doing a great job.” HURIWA also enlightened that the day would not only celebrate NDLEA but also serve as an inspiration for other agencies to emulate its exemplary performance based on verifiable records of success.
Furthermore, HURIWA advocated for national honors to be bestowed upon NDLEA officers who have demonstrated exceptional integrity and commitment to their duties, especially to the officers who reportedly rejected a N6 million bribe during a high-profile operation recently, exemplifying the agency’s unwavering dedication to upholding ethical standards. The association believes that recognizing and celebrating these achievements will inspire continued excellence in public service and reinforce the collective effort towards a drug-free Nigeria.
HURIWA also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating an enabling environment that supports the NDLEA’s aggressive anti-drug initiatives. The Association highlighted the administration’s backing and the charismatic leadership of Brig. Gen. Marwa has been pivotal in driving the Agency’s success, fostering an environment where excellence and integrity thrive.
“The NDLEA’s accomplishments under General Marwa’s leadership have brought pride to Nigeria. From reducing the number of Nigerians in foreign prisons to receiving international awards and making substantial drug busts, the agency has set a new benchmark for law enforcement. HURIWA urges all Nigerians to join in celebrating these milestones and to support the proposal for a national “Thank You Day” to honour the NDLEA and other exemplary government agencies. Together, let us build a nation that recognizes and celebrates excellence and integrity in public service”, HURIWA concluded.
