Personality in Focus
Marwa: Birthday Tribute to an Enigma
By Femi Babafemi
The danger of writing a tribute to any high profile personality in Nigeria today is obvious: the writer runs the risk of being misrepresented as a political praise singer, or at times, time and tide can cast him as a bootlicker, especially, if the subject of his adulation suffers a reversal of fortune, materially or reputation-wise. But with Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), OFR, you can safely write an eulogy because, you can be sure that ten years later, his stock will remain bullish. So, as he clocks 68 today, September 9, 2021, any piece of writing about him is no piece of sophistry because Marwa has been as constant as the Northern Star in the affairs of leadership, as he is presently exhibiting as the Chairman and Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, where his exploits are making leadership such a fine art that gladdens the hearts of many Nigerians and international partners in this unending season of anomie.
Indeed, to those who know him up close and personal, Marwa is an enigma: humble, self-effacing, industrious, practical, efficient by nature, diligent, always thinking about things he needs to accomplish or how to get ahead on his next assignment, a complete Virgo, if you care to assess him by his Zodiac sign. But in plain terms, he is a case of a man who set out to always make a difference wherever he found himself. Not the kind of difference other men pursue to grandstand, but the type that impacts humanity and makes life easier for people. And of this, his track record is unassailable.
A look back at his trajectory gives a chronicle of exemplary service to the country and a profile of pure patriotism from an individual. He could have chosen to live his life as an ordinary soldier, or at best be content with his name in the history book as one of the ‘boys’ of military maximum rulers. But he chose a different road to travel. Borno State remembers him as the military governor who gave them peace and security at a perilous time when rebels from Chad were raiding Nigerian border communities, not unlike the ravage of Boko Haram and bandits across today’s Nigeria. A practical Marwa had shown the necessity of firm action in such grave matters by birthing Operation Yaki, a combined Joint Task Force of military formation, and in few months reined in the Bandidos from across the border, making his territory safe and secure. Lagos State also remembers him as a hero, for bringing sanity, order, peace, progress to an otherwise, chaotic near-dystopic state, groping and groaning under the siege of local and transnational robbers. Col. Marwa solved the Gordian knot with Operation Sweep. Now at the NDLEA, it is too early to talk about the Marwa Revolution, but he has orchestrated a turnaround that signals a rebirth of the anti-narcotic agency at a time when the country needs to escalate its fight against illicit drugs.
For Marwans, his exploit did not come as a surprise. Everywhere he has served, he has always left indelible marks and his first six months in the NDLEA has brought the agency from relegation and obscurity to the frontline position that has attracted both local and international partnerships. His leadership at the NDLEA is refreshing to the collective psyche of Nigerians and a loud rebuttal to the tribe of pessimists, locally and globally, who cling to the odious belief that Nigerians are incapable of effective leadership.
Thunder, it is said, doesn’t strike twice; well, in the case of Marwa, it strikes repeatedly. Nigerians used to think the height of his service was Lagos, with what is unreeling in the NDLEA, Marwa’s leadership magnum opus is perhaps yet to come. The cynical assumption that his achievements in Lagos were due to the military ecosystem of the time has fallen flat like a pack of cards with the ongoing transformation of the NDLEA. Out of Khaki, garbed in Babanriga, Marwa has been able to transmit military’s discipline, purpose-driven action and go-getting attitude to the workforce of a paramilitary organisation operating in a laissez-faire society. How he did it, is, again, the stuff of leadership.
Yet, if Borno and Lagos seem a distant memory, here before us, is what is fast becoming a locus classicus of leadership, this rejuvenation of NDLEA, which stands in sharp relief against the backdrop of the insecurity in the country. He has been one of President Muhammadu Buhari’s best appointments thus far.
Without any doubt, there is a swell in the number of students of the Marwa School of Leadership. The younger generation, who only heard of his exploits of yesteryears are now seeing evidence of management skill, and are paying attention to the lessons therein.
Right before their eyes, Marwa is teaching the anatomy of how to make an organisation relevant. Previously, NDLEA was down in the sinkhole of obscurity, but Marwa engineered a resurgence that has seen the Agency basking in the limelight for its record-breaking achievement. 8,634 arrests. 1,630 convictions. Over two million kilograms of drugs seized. Over N100 billion in cash and drugs seized. And the officers and men of the NDLEA are still rearing to go. What magic? No, magic, but a prudent application of management principles from the master of the game.
Marwa is also teaching the mechanics of how to win support for a cause as he continues to crisscross the length and breadth of Nigeria talking to communities and their leaders, about the imperative of joining forces to defeat the twin evils of illicit drug abuse and trafficking. And he’s doing a good job at it.
Another lesson from him is that thorny problems should be approached with offensive campaigns (like he has done with the War Against Drug Abuse, WADA initiative and Operation Offensive Action), motivated workforces and strategic alliance with critical partners.
Today, he stands tall as a colossus, one of Nigeria’s emblems of capable leadership, an amalgam of the best of Harvard education, Nigeria’s military capabilities, and the virtues of a Nigerian. Far removed from the tribal sentiment that is fast gaining root in the country, his cosmopolitan outlook has won him friends from North, West, South and East of Nigeria, and a firm recognition as a one-of-a-kind pan-Nigerian leader.
As he clocks 68 today, Nigerians including myself have only prayers, plenty of prayers for him, wishing him many happy returns, and wishing to continue to see him in leadership positions where he can better improve the lot of the citizenry of this country.
Femi Babafemi is NDLEA’s Director of Media & Advocacy
Personality in Focus
Prophet Isaiah Macwealth @45: A Tribute to a Visionary Leader, Kingdom Reformer, and Father to Nations
The Africa Division, Gospel Pillars Ministry on behalf of its leadership, partners, sons, daughters, and well-wishers across the African continent, has felicitated with its spiritual leader, Prophet Isaiah Macwealth, as he turns 45.
In a statement signed by management of the Africa Division, the group recognized Prophet Macwealth’s spiritual leadership and acts of humanity for over two decades.
The statement reads in full:
Africa Division joins countless sons, daughters, partners, and well-wishers around the world in celebrating the 45th birthday of our esteemed father, mentor, and spiritual leader, Prophet Isaiah Macwealth.
As he marks this significant milestone, we pause to reflect with profound gratitude on a life dedicated to the advancement of God’s Kingdom, the transformation of lives, and the raising of men and women who are impacting their generation with purpose and excellence.
For over two decades, Prophet Isaiah Macwealth has stood as a beacon of divine wisdom, prophetic accuracy, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to God’s assignment. Through his ministry, countless lives have been restored, destinies redirected, leaders raised, and communities transformed across continents.
His influence extends beyond the pulpit, reaching into the spheres of leadership development, nation-building, mentorship, education, and humanitarian impact. Through his teachings and personal example, he has inspired a generation to pursue God wholeheartedly while excelling in every area of life.
Africa Division expresses its deepest appreciation for his sacrifices, tireless labor, fatherly guidance, and steadfast commitment to nurturing spiritual growth and kingdom excellence across the African continent. We remain eternally grateful for the wisdom, grace, and covering that we continue to enjoy through his leadership.
As we celebrate this remarkable occasion, we honor not only a prophet but a statesman of the Kingdom, a trailblazer of faith, and a father whose life continues to illuminate pathways for many around the world.
We pray that the Almighty God grants him renewed strength, greater grace, increased influence, divine health, and many more years of fruitful service. May the coming years surpass all previous seasons in impact, relevance, and manifestation of God’s purpose for his life.
Happy 45th Birthday, Prophet Isaiah Macwealth.
Your life is a testament to God’s faithfulness, and your legacy continues to shape generations.
Personality in Focus
Aare EmmanuelKing Congratulates Dapo Abiodun at 66, Hails Gov’s Leadership Qualities
The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Adron Group, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, has extended his warm congratulations to the Executive Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, on the occasion of his 66th birthday.
In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the occasion, Aare EmmanuelKing described Governor Dapo Abiodun as a visionary leader, accomplished administrator, and distinguished statesman whose purposeful and people-oriented leadership continues to foster remarkable transformation, progressive governance, and sustainable development across Ogun State.
He noted that Governor Abiodun’s steadfast commitment to infrastructural development, economic advancement, youth empowerment, and the overall welfare of the citizenry has significantly positioned Ogun State as a foremost destination for investment, innovation, and socio-economic progress in Nigeria.
“On behalf of my family, the management, and staff of Adron Group, I sincerely felicitate with Your Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, on the occasion of your 66th birthday. Your exemplary leadership, humility, and unwavering dedication to public service remain highly commendable and inspiring. Ogun State has continued to experience substantial growth and development under your administration, while your contributions to governance and human capital development are truly noteworthy,” Aare EmmanuelKing stated.
He further offered prayers for God’s continued grace, wisdom, strength, and good health for the Governor as he continues to render selfless service to Ogun State and the nation at large.
Aare EmmanuelKing also wished Governor Abiodun many more years of impactful leadership, peace, and fulfillment in service to humanity.
Personality in Focus
Wema Bank’s One-Day MD/CEO, Chimamanda Ozoakpata, Unveils New Benefits for Children
Wema Bank has spent the last few years reimagining what Children’s Day can look like for Nigerian children.
As a result, the Bank has painstakingly evolved what started as a mere celebration into an intentional platform designed to build confidence, encourage leadership, promote financial literacy and create meaningful opportunities for children across different age groups.
This year, the bank has raised the bar even higher.
At Wema Bank’s Children’s Day Special Event held on Monday, May 25, 2026, the One-Day MD/CEO, Chimamanda Diamond Ozoakpata, used her first official act in office to unveil a series of new initiatives designed to reward, educate and empower children through our Royal Kiddies account and ALAT Xplore platform.
From year-long cash rewards and celebrations of academic excellence to financial literacy materials and STEM challenges, here are the new incentives that were announced and how to qualify:
1. Birthday Cash Gift (Royal Kiddies Account Holders) Wema bank is putting real money behind milestone birthdays. Active Royal Kiddies account holders turning 5 will receive ₦5,000, while those turning 10 will receive ₦10,000 automatically, as a birthday cash gift.
The initiative runs from May 2026 to May 2027.
Importantly, active account holders who already turned 5 or 10 before May 2026 this year will also receive their reward this month.
To qualify: Your child must hold an active Royal Kiddies account and be turning (or have turned) age 5 or 10 within the qualifying window.
2. ₦100,000 Reward for Top Common Entrance Students (Royal Kiddies Account Holders).
In a move that directly ties financial reward to academic achievement, Wema Bank will reward the top 100 students in the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) with ₦100,000 each. This initiative commences in June 2026.
To qualify:
Your child must be among the top 100 performers in the NCEE and hold a Royal Kiddies account.
3. Financial Literacy Book Launch – Money Adventures (Royal Kiddies Account Holders) Wema Bank officially launched Money Adventures, a financial literacy book created for children aged 6 and above, at the Children’s Day event.
Designed to make money conversations simpler and more engaging for young readers, the book introduces children to foundational concepts around saving, money management and responsible financial habits in a fun, age-appropriate way. To qualify: To receive a copy of this book, your child must hold an active Royal Kiddies account or have their Royal Kiddies account newly activated.4. Evolve School Tour STEM Challenge (ALAT Xplore Account Holders)The Bank also unveiled the Evolve School Tour STEM Challenge. Designed for secondary school students aged 13–17, the programme will run across six schools nationwide with existing STEM programmes. Through hands-on STEM competitions and school engagements, the initiative aims to promote innovation, technology awareness, financial literacy and responsible savings culture.
There will also be monetary prizes to be won at the end of the challenge.To qualify: Your child must be an ALAT Xplore customer, aged 13–17, and attend one of the participating schools with an active STEM programme.Over the last four years, Wema Bank has consistently treated Children’s Day as more than a calendar moment. From the One-Day MD/CEO initiative to school tours, leadership experiences and child-focused financial literacy campaigns, the Bank has continued to expand how it supports children meaningfully.
Yet, this is the first time the bank has included a Children’s Day initiative that runs for an entire year. Combine that with a six-figure academic reward, a published financial literacy resource, and a nationwide school tour, and it becomes clear: this is the most comprehensive, most impactful package of benefits Wema Bank has ever delivered to its youngest customers.
It signals a growing commitment by Wema Bank to create experiences for children that extend far beyond celebration and leave a lasting impact long after Children’s Day is over.
