FG Commissions First NDLEA Barracks In Adamawa

FG commissions first NDLEA barracks in Adamawa.

From Umar Dankano, Yola.

The Federal government has commissioned the first barracks for the personnel of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency,NDLEA for improved efficiency in Adamawa state.

Commissioning the state of arts edifice in Yola Tuesday, the special guest of honor and the Attorney General of Federation,Lateef Fagbemi said that the

development symbolizes the Agency’s commitment to staff wellbeing, determination to build a safer Nigeria

Fagbemi noted that,the barracks will provide office and residential accommodation for officers, men and women of the anti-narcotics body charging the personnel to reciprocate such gesture with higher responsibility and unwavering dedication to duty.

Fagbemi, and Minister of justice said the facility, which includes modern administrative offices, detention facilities, secure storage, and residential accommodations, is not just a physical structure but a critical investment in human capital and a testament to President Bola Tinubu administration’s resolve to create an environment where NDLEA officers and their families can live and thrive with dignity and security.

“The role of NDLEA in our society cannot be overstated. The fight against drug abuse is a fight for our nation’s future. It is a battle to protect our youth from the devastating effects of substance abuse and to rid our communities of the violence and destruction that often accompany the illegal drug trade.

“This barracks, therefore, is more than a place of residence; it is a fortress of resilience and a beacon of hope for our nation’s future and l would like to re-assure of my continued commitment to supporting the work that you do. This is based on my personal conviction of the intersection between justice and law enforcement.

“This facility is a critical component of the rule of law—ensuring that those who are tasked with upholding our laws are protected, empowered, and equipped to carry out their duties.

“It reinforces the principle that justice begins with those who enforce it, and it is our collective responsibility to provide them with necessary resources to carry out their responsibilities effectively.”

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 to the Agency.

In his remarks, Chairman of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd) emphasized the significance of the barracks project to the safety of the Agency’s personnel 35 years after its establishment.

“This year marks the 35th anniversary of NDLEA. Over the years, the absence of dedicated accommodation for our officers has led to challenges, including exposure to risks for them and their families. Tragically, quite a number of our personnel have been trailed to their houses and murdered. Such incidents emphasized the urgency of providing secure housing for our personnel”.Marwa stressed.

Marwa said that,the facility, situated on an 18-hectare site in Kwanan Waya suburb of the Adamawa state capital reflects commitment to the safety, welfare, and operational efficiency of our personnel.

“The barracks includes office structures, accommodation and auxiliary facilities. The office structures consist of a modern administrative building for the NDLEA Adamawa State Command, a detention facility, a state-of-the-art exhibit room, watchtowers, and operational pavilions.

“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.

“This state-of-the-art facility is a testament to our resolve to win the fight against drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria. It symbolises our commitment to the welfare of our personnel and serves as a bold statement of our determination to build a safer nation.”

Marwa declared.

Our Correspondent in Yola reported that the completed phase first of the barracks will house 500 personnel and that highly placed dignitaries graced the ceremony including former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, Senator Francis Fadahunsi, Senator Ibrahim Dankwabo members of the National Assembly from Adamawa state, first class traditional rulers from across the state, among others.