Marwa launches NDLEA radio station in Abuja
Buba Marwa, chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has called on Nigerians to resist what he described as the “toxic pop culture that glamorises abuse of illicit substances” among young people.
Marwa spoke in Abuja on Thursday during the inauguration of the agency’s radio station, Clean Beat 91.5FM, at its headquarters.
He urged stakeholders and Nigerians to support NDLEA’s war against drug abuse (WADA) campaign aimed at preventing substance abuse from becoming normalised among the youth.
“We recognise 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. Through this station, we will drive our narrative softly but firmly,” Marwa said.
“We will counter the toxic pop culture that glamourises 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 very future of our workforce.”
The NDLEA chairman described the station as a platform that would reinforce the message that a drug-free Nigeria is achievable.
He noted that while enforcement efforts are important, public education and prevention remain critical in tackling substance abuse.
“And that is precisely why Clean Beat 91.5 FM was conceived. In a fast-evolving digital age, radio remains an incomparable asset,” Marwa said.
It is intimate. It is immediate. It bypasses barriers and speaks directly to the citizen—in their living rooms, on their daily commutes, in the bustling marketplaces, and in the quiet moments of introspection.”
Marwa also acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu for approving the station’s budget, as well as the contributions of Nuhu Ribadu, the national security adviser (NSA); the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC); international partners; and NDLEA staff members, who, according to him, helped bring the project to life.
Speaking at the event, Cheikh Touré, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) country representative for Nigeria, represented by Akanidomo Ibanga, praised the initiative and described radio as an effective advocacy tool.
“Through this initiative, the NDLEA has demonstrated its continued commitment to innovative and people-centred approaches that complement enforcement efforts with education, advocacy, and dialogue,” Touré said.
“Through this platform, NDLEA is taking the drug control message directly to the people — into homes, communities, schools, and streets.
“This initiative also aligns strongly with the National Drug Control Master Plan and reinforces the leadership of NDLEA in driving a balanced, health-orientated, and security-conscious approach to drug control in Nigeria. ”
