NDLEA Arms Operatives With AK-47 Rifles, Advanced Pistols in Historic First Since Agency's Creation
Kathy Kyari
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded a major operational milestone by officially inducting AK-47 rifles and advanced pistols into its tactical arsenal for the first time in its 36-year history, citing the growing threat posed by heavily armed drug trafficking syndicates.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has recorded a major operational milestone by officially inducting AK-47 rifles and advanced pistols into its tactical arsenal for the first time in its 36-year history, citing the growing threat posed by heavily armed drug trafficking syndicates.
The development was unveiled by the Chairman/Chief Executive of the agency, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), during the opening of a specialised weapon handling course in Jos for pioneer instructors who will train officers nationwide on the use of AK-47 Type 56-1 rifles and HS-9/CF98A pistols.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Col. Murtala Aminu, Marwa described the induction of the weapons as a critical turning point in the agency's operations, saying the changing nature of the fight against illicit drugs made it imperative to strengthen the capacity of NDLEA personnel.
"The nature of the war we fight has evolved," Marwa said, adding that "Drug trafficking organisations are no longer mere commercial criminal enterprises; they are armed, organised, and ruthless. Our officers face increasing danger in the field, and it would be unconscionable for this Agency to send men and women into harm's way without the tools and training to protect themselves and the public they serve. This programme is, therefore, not just about firearms, it is about the preservation of lives and the projection of institutional strength."
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the agency's operational expansion and commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) for providing the initial consignment of firearms and ammunition that enabled the commencement of the training programme.
Marwa disclosed that the procurement of additional weapons from the China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) is in its final stage, with thousands of firearms expected to be delivered soon.
He said the agency is partnering with the Nigerian Air Force to airlift the weapons to commands across the country under a structured distribution plan.
According to him, the ongoing course is designed to produce pioneer master trainers selected on merit from various commands. The officers will return to their respective formations to conduct a compulsory one-month weapons training programme for all personnel before the firearms are deployed for operational use.
Addressing the participants, Marwa said: "The weight of that responsibility should not be lost on you. You are the first. You are the standard-bearers. The operational culture, the safety ethos, the professional discipline that will define how the NDLEA handles weapons, all of that begins here, with you, in this academy, on this day."
He urged the officers to uphold discipline, professionalism and strict adherence to safety standards while handling firearms.
"First, embrace discipline as your bedrock. Weapons handling is not a privilege, it is a grave responsibility. Every firearm must be treated with the seriousness it demands, at all times, in all circumstances."
"Second, internalise safety as a culture, not a checklist. Avoidable incidents are the result of complacency. The NDLEA cannot and will not tolerate negligence when it comes to the handling of arms and ammunition. We owe this standard to our colleagues and to the Nigerian public."
"Third, understand that proficiency is not just technical, it is ethical. The power that a firearm confers must always be tempered by restraint, judgement, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law and rules of engagement. Our mandate is to protect lives, not to endanger them."
"Fourth, be worthy of the trust placed in you. When you stand before your colleagues as instructors, you carry with you not just technical knowledge but the authority of this institution. Teach with integrity, lead by example, and hold yourselves to the highest standards."
Marwa said the induction of the weapons marks another phase in the agency's transformation into a more professional and effective force against drug trafficking networks.
"I am proud of the extraordinary strides this agency has made under our collective watch. In the past few years, the NDLEA has transformed into a more professional, more capable, and more feared adversary to drug criminals. We have recorded unprecedented seizures, dismantled criminal networks, and brought justice to traffickers who once believed themselves untouchable."
"The induction of more arms into our operational inventory is the next chapter in that story—and it is a chapter that must be written with honor," he said.
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