International Police Academy Appoints NDLEA Officer As Director

The International Police Academy (IPA) has officially appointed Deputy Commander General Joseph Ogirima Icha of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) as Director of International Counter Narcotics Training.

Femi Babafemi, Director, Media & Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja made this known in a statement on Wednesday, 20th August 2025.

The IPA Executive Board announced the honorary appointment, recognizing Icha’s outstanding contributions to law enforcement, security, and academic advancement. The move underscores the shared global commitment to combat drug abuse and trafficking through enhanced training, cooperation, and knowledge sharing.

Headquartered in New York, the IPA is a prestigious institution with a global footprint including the United States, Europe, and over 140 countries. It is dedicated to providing advanced education and research opportunities for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilians.

A certificate from IPA President Shuaib Adam and Executive Director Dr. Alexander Jan formalized Icha’s appointment, highlighting his distinguished service as an honorary member of the International Police Academy and UNIPOL International Police University.

At the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja, DCG Icha currently serves as Director of Training and Manpower Development, where he has played a key role in enhancing the agency’s capabilities through innovative training programs, international partnerships, and reforms aligned with global best practices.

In a congratulatory message, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) described the appointment as a proud affirmation of the professionalism and global relevance of Nigerian officers in drug law enforcement. He emphasized that this achievement reflects positively on the agency and Nigeria’s role as a strategic partner in the international fight against drug trafficking.

Marwa further encouraged Icha to leverage this platform to promote Nigeria’s dedication to global standards and to advance capacity building for officials from countries facing similar challenges.