Drug War: NDLEA Officer Igonoh Emerges Global Winner of ILEA Outstanding Operational Success Award
An officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Francis Ameh Igonoh has emerged as the 2024 winner of the prestigious International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) Outstanding Operational Success Award.
Following the feat, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa approved a special promotion of Igonoh, a Superintendent of the Agency.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Director, Media and Advocacy of the Agency, Mr. Femi Babafemi on Friday.
According to the statement, Gen. Marwa during a brief ceremony commended Igonoh for making the Agency and Nigeria proud after the officer presented the award certificate to him.
His words: “You have distinguished yourself in our concerted effort to curb the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria and as such the global recognition of our role in dismantling fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine cartels clearly typifies enhanced intelligence and we can’t but equally appreciate the support of the Drug Enforcement Administration of the United States in this regard.
“I will like to also add that with this international recognition, you are not just a pride to yourself, your family but the Agency and the nation as a whole. The sacrifice of a narcotic officer cannot be quantified in gold or silver, for he is fulfilling a higher calling. As we go about our duty of securing our society against the corrosion of illicit drugs, we should be aware that we are the direct beneficiaries of our work because for every kilo of drugs seized, we are making our streets and society safer for our children, family and kinsmen.
“This is why NDLEA is proud of its workforce; the Agency treasures the effort of its officers, men and women; the management shall continue to look out for their best interest and we shall continue to reward hard work and excellence.”
The NDLEA boss approved the promotion of Igonoh to the rank of Assistant Commander of Narcotics due to his dedication, commitment to work and professionalism – noting that the three (3) attributes helped him achieve the global recognition.
He disclosed that the he was already due for elevation to his next rank as Chief Superintendent of Narcotics prior to his promotion, stressing that it will further encourage him and his peers.
The award certificate which was signed by the Director of West Africa Regional Training Center, Harward Lampley lauded the NDLEA officer, saying the recognition was well deserved.
“Your commitment to utilizing the skills and techniques acquired from the ILEA training has contributed to combatting drug trafficking in the region. This feat is a testament of your dedication, hard work, and excellence in efforts to counter Transnational Organised Crime. The West Africa Regional Training Center (RTC) and the ILEA Program appreciate your significant contributions in promoting regional and global security,” the award certificate reads.
