The Edo State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mitchell Ofoyeju, has decorated seven officers recently promoted to the rank of Deputy Commander of Narcotics by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. General Mohamed Buba Marwa (RTD) CON.
The event took place at the Command’s headquarters in Benin City and was marked by pride, joy, and a commitment to the ongoing battle against drug abuse and trafficking.
The officers, who received their new ranks during the decoration ceremony, included Timothy Nku Odu, James Olusola Olarewaju, Akpabio Akpan, Anthony Odu Oko, Fidelis Nkazi Heijirika, Paul Akhazee and Mohammed Danmusa. Commander Mitchell, who presided over the event, charged the officers to see their elevation as a call to greater action in combating drug-related crimes and forging a safer environment for the country.
“The elevation of these officers to the rank of Deputy Commander of Narcotics reinforces the agency’s commitment to enhancing its operational capacity and maintaining a strong stance against drug-related crime in Edo State. The officers have shown exemplary leadership and resilience in tackling the challenges posed by drug trafficking. Accordingly, this is a call to higher responsibilities in their noble career. I congratulate you and charge you to remain courageous and dogged in the discharge of your responsibilities,” Mitchell stated.
Speaking on behalf of the decorated officers, Timothy Nku said that they will continue to work very hard in the days ahead. “To whom much is given, much is expected. We are glad with the promotion and pledged our loyalty and dedication in the discharge of our new responsibilities,” Timothy assured.
The ceremony was attended by various management staff, fellow officers, and the families of the promoted officers. Mrs Omobolaji James, the wife of James Olarewaju, one of the decorated officers, expressed joy over her husband’s promotion. “I am proud of my husband’s achievements and the work he has done in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. This promotion is not just for him, but for all of us who support the fight against drugs,” said Mrs Omobolaji.
Commander Mitchell added that the Command looks forward to the future with optimism, confident in its team’s ability to navigate the complexities of drug enforcement and take on greater challenges in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. As challenges in law enforcement continue to evolve, the NDLEA remains resolute in its mission to uphold the rule of law and protect the public from the dangers of illicit substances.
