In a major shift to strengthen its tactical capabilities against increasingly violent drug trafficking organisations, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has commenced the induction of AK-47 Type 56-1 rifles and HS-9/CF98A pistols into its operational architecture.
The move is expected to boost the agency’s response to armed drug trafficking syndicates whose operations have become more sophisticated and dangerous.
Details of the development were contained in a statement emailed to Persecondnews on Monday by the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa announced the move, during the inauguration of a specialised Train-the-Trainer Course on Weapon Handling for AK-47 Type 56-1 rifles and HS-9/CF98A pistols at the NDLEA Academy in Jos, Plateau State.
Marwa, represented by his Chief of Staff, Col. Murtala Aminu, said the induction of tactical weapons marks a defining moment in the agency’s 36-year history, arguing that the changing nature of organised drug crime requires a corresponding upgrade in the agency’s operational capability.
He said the agency could no longer deploy officers into dangerous operations without providing them with the equipment and training required to protect themselves and the public.
“The threats confronting our officers have changed significantly. We have a responsibility to ensure they are properly equipped and trained before sending them into high-risk operations.
“This initiative is about safeguarding lives and strengthening the agency’s capacity to carry out its mandate effectively,” he said.
Marwa disclosed that the procurement process, initiated in 2023 through the China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), has entered its final stage.
According to him, thousands of firearms and ammunition are expected for delivery under a distribution and accountability framework already approved for nationwide deployment.
He disclosed that the agency is working with the Nigerian Air Force to airlift the weapons to NDLEA commands across the country.
Marwa explained that the ongoing course would produce the agency’s pioneer master trainers, who were selected on merit from various commands.
He further noted that the officers would return to their commands to conduct a mandatory one-month weapons handling programme for all personnel before the firearms are deployed operationally.
“As the first set of instructors, the responsibility rests on you to establish the standards of discipline, safety and professionalism that will guide the agency’s weapons handling programme for years to come.”
Marwa urged the participants to treat firearms as a serious responsibility, insisting that discipline and safety must remain central to every operation.
“The agency would not tolerate negligence in the handling of arms and ammunition. Every officer entrusted with a firearm must exercise restraint, sound judgement and professionalism.”
Reflecting on the agency’s recent achievements, Marwa said the NDLEA had evolved into a more professional, capable and formidable institution, recording unprecedented drug seizures, dismantling criminal networks and bringing traffickers who once considered themselves untouchable to justice.
He said the induction of tactical weapons represents the next phase in the agency’s evolution and would further strengthen officer safety, operational effectiveness and national security.
“This is another important milestone in our journey. We must ensure that this new phase is defined by accountability, professionalism and honour as we continue the fight against drug trafficking.”
Marwa further attributed the agency’s growing operational capacity to the support of President Bola Tinubu, whom he commended for his unwavering commitment to strengthening the NDLEA and enhancing its ability to combat drug trafficking across the country.
He also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) for facilitating the initial consignment of firearms and ammunition, which enabled the specialised training programme to commence without delay.
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