The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has applauded the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), describing him as a leader whose impact on Nigeria has remained visible for decades.
The monarch spoke on Friday during a courtesy visit to the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, where he highlighted Marwa’s long-standing record of public service, particularly his role in introducing what later became known nationwide as the “Keke Marwa” tricycle system during his tenure as military governor of Lagos State between 1996 and 1999.
According to a statement issued by NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, Oba Owoade said Marwa’s achievements in Lagos and Borno States had earned him a reputation as a “consistent performer.”
“We are proud of you. Your presence in this position is not by accident but by merit. One thing I can never forget is the legacy of the ‘Keke Marwa’ you introduced to Nigeria,” the Alaafin said.
Responding to Marwa’s call for traditional rulers to play a more active role in the fight against drug abuse, the monarch pledged full support. He emphasised that traditional institutions remain the closest to the grassroots and are therefore crucial in driving community sensitisation.
“We are ready to work with you and offer all necessary support. Whenever you need us, we will be there,” he assured.
Earlier, Marwa congratulated the Alaafin on ascending the throne and urged royal fathers across the country to use their influence to address drug abuse within their communities.
He warned that substance use remains a major challenge, citing a 2018 national survey indicating that about 15 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 engage in drug use. He affirmed the agency’s commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s directive to intensify the crackdown on drug traffickers, prosecute offenders, and confiscate criminal assets.
Marwa also appealed to traditional rulers to collaborate with religious leaders to strengthen anti-drug advocacy. He noted that timely intelligence from local communities would greatly aid the NDLEA in tracking down drug dealers who target young people.
“If we can reduce drug use, crime rates will drop. Criminals, kidnappers, insurgents, terrorists and bandits often rely on drugs to embolden themselves,” Marwa added.
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