Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has urged Nigerians to rise against the toxic pop culture that glamourizes the abuse of illicit substances, especially among the youth.
Marwa gave the charge during the official commissioning of the agency’s radio station, Clean Beat 91.5 FM, in Abuja on Thursday, May 21, 2026. He challenged all stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to join the NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign to protect the youth from embracing drug abuse as a way of life.
“We recognize that behind every statistic of drug abuse is a human being — a vulnerable teenager seeking escape, a broken family searching for answers, a brilliant mind derailed but capable of redirection,” he said.
“Through this station, we will counter the toxic pop culture that glamourizes drug abuse by replacing it with a vibrant alternative culture — one that celebrates sobriety, showcases real stories of recovery, and provides accurate, life-saving information.
“Let us make no mistake: the stakes could not be higher. If we do not control the narrative today, the consequences tomorrow will be catastrophic. Substance abuse is a hydra-headed monster that feeds insecurity, decimates public health, cripples economic productivity, and compromises the future of our workforce.
“But we at the NDLEA refuse to look at the future through a lens of despair. Clean Beat 91.5 FM will stand as a beacon of light, constantly reminding us that a drug-free Nigeria is not an idealistic dream — it is an achievable reality.
“Today, we are amplifying hope. We are commissioning a powerful voice for a cause that sits at the heart of our national security, the survival of our communities, and the destiny of our youth.”
Marwa emphasized that while enforcement wins battles, education and prevention win wars. He noted that the radio station was conceived to dismantle the demand for drugs by tackling ignorance and providing an alternative narrative.
He commended the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who approved the budget for the station, the National Security Adviser, the National Broadcasting Commission, international partners, and the dedicated NDLEA team.
“To all Nigerians, and most especially to our vibrant youth: this station is yours. Tune in, engage with our programmes, and become ambassadors of this movement. Let us keep the beat clean,” he pleaded.
In his goodwill message, the United Nations Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Ousmane Touré (represented by Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga), commended Marwa for using a radio platform for advocacy. He said the initiative complements enforcement with education and aligns with the National Drug Control Master Plan.
Also speaking, the Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr. Charles Ebuebu, praised the visionary leadership of Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, describing the station as a tool for national orientation, behavioural change, and youth empowerment.
The Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu (represented by Mr. Bala Musa), hailed the radio station as a platform for positive attitudinal change and citizens’ reorientation.
