The Federal Government has inaugurated the first barracks that will provide office and residential accommodation for personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Yola, Adamawa State.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said the role of NDLEA in society cannot be overstated.

Mr Fagbemi said that the provision was with a charge to the personnel that the well-deserved investment in their welfare was a call to higher responsibility and unwavering dedication to duty.

He said the facility, which included modern administrative offices, detention facilities, secure storage, and residential accommodations, was not just a physical structure.

He added that it was a critical investment in human capital and a testament to President Bola Tinubu administration’s resolve.

This, he said, was to create an environment where NDLEA officers and their families could live and thrive with dignity and security.

According to him, the fight against drug abuse is a fight for Nigeria’s future.

He stated, “It is a battle to protect our youths 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. I would like to reassure you 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,” he said.

Mr Fagbemi urged NDLEA officers who would inhabit the facility to remain steadfast in their service.

According to him, the nation looks at NDLEA officers not only as enforcers of the law, but as protectors of shared hope for a safer, healthier society.

The minister said, “This investment in your welfare is a call to higher responsibility, one that requires unwavering dedication and resolute commitment. This day should serve as more than the commissioning of a physical structure. It should be a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to building a society where every citizen can thrive—free from the perils of drug abuse and the destruction it brings. Together, through concerted effort and unwavering determination, we will secure the promise of a better and brighter Nigeria for all.’’

He commended former President Muhammadu Buhari under whose leadership the project was approved and set in motion.

The minister praised Mr Tinubu for aiding the dream into fruition, and Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State for his exemplary cooperation and support in ensuring that the project was executed.

He also appreciated the support of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, towards the operational successes of the NDLEA.

“This project, which has been conceptualised and driven by Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), the dynamic Chairman and Chief Executive of NDLEA, is a reflection of the forward-thinking leadership that has defined his tenure in the Agency. I am proud to note that Marwa has revitalised the operational framework of NDLEA, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a steadfast commitment to public service delivery”, he added.

The modern barrack came 35 years after the establishment of the NDLEA.

(NAN)