I Was in Primary Four in Abeokuta When My Father Served With General Buhari — NDLEA Chairman, Marwa
By Erewunmi Peace
Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier-General (rtd) Mohammed Buba Marwa, has shared a personal reflection on his early childhood and family ties to Nigeria’s late former president, General Muhammadu Buhari.
Marwa made the remark while speaking at a public event held in honour of the late former military ruler and civilian president. According to him, his father served in the Nigerian Army alongside Buhari when Buhari was a young officer posted to Abeokuta, Ogun State.
“I was in Primary Four in Abeokuta at the time my father was serving with General Buhari,” Marwa said, recalling his early exposure to military life and leadership.
A Personal Reflection
The NDLEA chairman explained that his statement was meant to highlight the long-standing relationship between their families and to reflect on Buhari’s early military career and character.
He described Buhari as a disciplined officer whose influence was felt even in his formative years, noting that the former president maintained a consistent reputation for orderliness and commitment to duty throughout his life.
Context of the Remarks
Marwa’s comments were made during a gathering focused on remembering Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria, particularly his service in the military and later as a democratically elected president.
The NDLEA chairman emphasised that his recollection was personal and historical, rather than political, and was intended to offer insight into Buhari’s background and leadership journey.
About Buba Marwa
Marwa is a retired brigadier-general, former military administrator, and current head of the NDLEA. He has been widely credited with reforms and renewed intensity in Nigeria’s fight against drug trafficking and abuse since assuming office.
Public Reaction
The statement has attracted attention on social media, with many Nigerians engaging it as a glimpse into the early years of one of the country’s most prominent leaders. Analysts say such personal recollections help humanise public figures and preserve historical memory.
