NDLEA Receives Approval for AK-47 Deployment in Nigeria

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has been authorized by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deploy AK-47 rifles to bolster its anti-drug war efforts. This announcement was made by the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mohammed Buba Marwa, during the inauguration of a specialized training course for weapon handling at the NDLEA Academy.

Marwa described this initiative as a historic milestone in the agency's 36-year history, emphasizing the necessity of adapting to the evolving nature of drug trafficking and organized crime. He noted that the agency faces increasing dangers in the field and requires adequate tools to protect its personnel and the public.

Marwa expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for supporting the agency's operational expansion and commended the National Security Adviser for facilitating the initiative regarding firearms and ammunition. The NDLEA is in the final stages of procuring thousands of rifles and ammunition from China, with the Nigerian Air Force assisting in the strategic distribution of these weapons nationwide.

A training program is set to produce master trainers who will conduct mandatory monthly weapon handling courses for personnel deployed in operations.