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25 years after first forensic lab in Lagos, NDLEA gets two more in Abuja and Enugu

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25 years after first forensic lab in Lagos, NDLEA gets two more in Abuja and Enugu

By: Michael Mike

After over 25 years of conducting forensic analysis in a single laboratory facility in Lagos, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has established two new laboratories and upgraded the existing one to enhance accessibility, expedite timely analysis, and prosecute cases efficiently following a surge in drug seizures over the past months.

The two additional laboratories built in Abuja and Enugu, according to a statement on Monday by the spokesman of the agency, Femi Babafemi are strategically located and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to meet the highest standards of quality and safety protocols, as well as ensuring a safe working environment.

Speaking on the development, the Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) said “the newly constructed laboratories will enable us to enhance our forensic analysis capabilities, increase our capacity to process cases efficiently and strengthen our fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.”

He noted that while the two new facilities were set to commence operations, the existing one in Lagos has undergone a comprehensive renovation and refurbishment, transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility. “This project was made possible through the sponsorship of the US International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and implemented by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)”, he stated.

Babafemi said beside equipping the laboratories with additional cutting-edge analytical instruments, the agency in collaboration with the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN), has conducted the training and certification of 20 NDLEA forensic analysts, meant to empower them to sign off on drug analysis reports, thereby enhancing the agency’s forensic capabilities.

He noted that this is in addition to the implementation of robust quality control measures, following the agency’s successful participation in three rounds of the UNODC International Collaborative Exercise (ICE) programme, which is an important part of International Quality Assurance Programme (IQAP) to ensure quality management systems, accuracy and reliability of results.

While commending the officers, men and women of the agency’s Directorate of Forensic and Chemical Monitoring for working with him to break the over 25 years jinx, Marwa said the milestone achieved in the area of forensic analysis is borne out of his commitment to equipping the laboratories with state-of-the-art instruments and developing the expertise of the agency’s personnel to ensure accurate and reliable forensic analysis, research methodologies and tackling the challenges posed by emerging New Psychoactive Substances (NPS).

“The newly constructed drug laboratories and renovated facilities mark a significant milestone in the Agency’s history, and we are delighted about this achievement”, Marwa added.

Meanwhile, the US-INL has donated a new advanced equipment to the agency to enhance the operations of the NDLEA forensic lab in Lagos. The handover of the spectroscopy device was done by the Director of INL in Nigeria, Ms. Candace Spradley who commended the collaboration between NDLEA and the INL. She said the donated equipment will enhance the agency’s capacity to detect and analyse suspicious substances.

A team of top officials of the agency who received the US delegation and the equipment at the Ikoyi Lagos headquarters annex of NDLEA was led by the Director, Seaport Operations, DCGN Omolade Faboyede. Others include the Director, Forensic and Chemical Monitoring, ACGN Patricia Afolabi; Deputy Director Media and Advocacy, ACGN Rita Geh Okpere; Head, Special Operations Unit, ACGN Akinola Idowu Grace and Commander, Lagos State Strategic Command of the agency, CN Abubakar Liman Wali, among others.

25 years after first forensic lab in Lagos, NDLEA gets two more in Abuja and Enugu

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Troops foil attack by Criminal Youths, rescue victims, arrest suspects in plateau

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Troops foil attack by Criminal Youths, rescue victims, arrest suspects in plateau

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), have foiled an attack on residents at Dutse Uku in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

A security source said the troops responded swiftly to a report of sporadic gunshots in the area at about 11:50 p.m. on April 2.

According to the source, upon arrival at the scene, the suspected criminals fled, abandoning their operation due to the prompt intervention of the troops.

He said the troops rescued two victims who sustained gunshot wounds during the incident and immediately evacuated them to a hospital for medical attention.

The source further disclosed that two suspects, dressed in black attire, were arrested at the scene.

Items recovered from the suspects include a cutlass and a knife.

He added that the suspects are currently in military custody and undergoing preliminary investigation, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the group.

Zagazola report that despite heightened security, there has been report of pocket of attacks in some communities.

The source reassured residents of the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property and urged the public to continue providing timely information to security agencies.

Troops foil attack by Criminal Youths, rescue victims, arrest suspects in plateau

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2027: Constituents declare support for Tinubu, Goje’s re-election

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2027: Constituents declare support for Tinubu, Goje’s re-election

Yamaltu/Deba constituents have declared support for President Bola Tinubu and Senator Danjuma Goje’s re-election ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

Dr Newton Moses, declared the support in a statement read on behalf of the people of Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area of Gombe State on Friday in Gombe.

Moses said voting for experienced leaders in 2027 remained key to addressing Nigeria’s challenges and delivering dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

He said the group’s decision to support Tinubu and Goje was guided by patriotism, and a sincere desire to see competent, and result-driven leadership that would benefit their constituents and the country.

He said that Goje’s leadership in the past 16 years at the Senate has benefitted the constituents and given effective representation to the people of Akko and Yamaltu/Deba LGAs that make up the district.

He dismissed allegations that the people of Yamaltu/Deba have been marginalised and were demanding the seat to be zoned to Yamaltu/Deba and not Akko where Goje is from.

He said that the constitution did not impose any zoning limitation or tenure restriction on membership in the National Assembly, hence urged those seeking the seat to test their popularity through election.

“We are not part of that group saying Goje should not return to the senate in 2027; that is not the voice of the grassroots from Yamaltu Deba.

“ Goje has, over the years, built invaluable networks and acquired the experience necessary to effectively advocate for the interests of his constituency and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“ By returning Goje to the Senate, Gombe Central stands to gain even more.

“ His established influence will ensure greater access to federal opportunities, increased developmental projects, and stronger representation in critical national decisions,” he said.

The group further advised President Tinubu to stay away from those working to tarnish the good name of Goje, stating that Goje’s influence in Gombe was important for the success of the All Progressives Congress in 2027.

Moses said at a time when Nigeria is focused on economic recovery, institutional strengthening, and inclusive growth under Tinubu, it was imperative that proven leaders like Goje to continue contributing his expertise toward national progress.

2027: Constituents declare support for Tinubu, Goje’s re-election

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Hope in the Hard Times: Ashlee Momoh Foundation Spreads Easter Joy to Military Widows

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Hope in the Hard Times: Ashlee Momoh Foundation Spreads Easter Joy to Military Widows

By Comrade Philip O. Ikodor

The Ashlee Momoh Foundation (AMF), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the families of fallen officers, marked the Easter season with a heartwarming outreach to military widows at different locations in Abuja and Nasarawa state, respectively on April 2nd, 2026. This thoughtful initiative was designed to bring joy, hope, and support to the widows of our fallen Military Officers, who have made immense sacrifices for their country.

“Easter is the season of renewal, hope, and the triumph of light over darkness,” Princess Ashlee said. “It reminds us that even after the longest winter, spring arrives and even after the deepest sorrow, there is the possibility of a new dawn.” The outreach was designed to show support and encouragement to the military widows, and to felicitate with them on the occasion of Easter.

Princess Ashlee Momoh reassured the widows that while their loved ones are no longer physically present, their legacy lives on, and AMF is committed to standing with them, supporting them, and celebrating their strength. “Today, we celebrate you, our heroes’ widows, and the sacrifices you’ve made,” she said.

The event was filled with moments of joy and fulfilment, as beneficiaries received gift items, cash gifts, and scholarship opportunities. The Foundation also announced enlistment for skill acquisition and empowerment programs, aimed at equipping the widows with the tools they need to rebuild their lives.

The outreach was a testament to AMF’s unwavering commitment to supporting the families of fallen officers, and its dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of those who have made immense sacrifices for their country. As one beneficiary put it, “This Easter, we’ve received more than just gifts – we’ve received hope, love, and a sense of belonging.”

The Ashlee Momoh Foundation’s Easter outreach was a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope, and that together, we can overcome any challenge.

Hope in the Hard Times: Ashlee Momoh Foundation Spreads Easter Joy to Military Widows

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