The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has heightened its efforts to combat drug trafficking across Nigeria’s waterways, leading to the interception of over 61,688 kilograms of illicit substances and the arrest of 41 suspects.
The Chairman and Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), revealed this during the commissioning of the agency’s new Marine Command Headquarters in Lagos, a facility donated by the British Government.
Speaking at the event on Wednesday, Marwa praised the decision to elevate the NDLEA’s Marine Unit to a full-fledged command in 2022, citing its significant role in recent successes.
“We did not make a mistake when we upgraded the Marine Unit,” Marwa stated.
“The arrests and drug seizures in the maritime space have been on the rise.”
The NDLEA chief disclosed that 15 of the 41 suspects apprehended have already been prosecuted and jailed, with seized drugs including cocaine, codeine, tramadol, methamphetamine, and Loud, a potent strain of cannabis. Over the last three years, the agency’s operations at Nigerian ports have resulted in the confiscation of at least 750 tons of illicit drugs.
Marwa also emphasized the importance of collaboration with other maritime law enforcement agencies in curbing drug trafficking.
He noted that personal vessels, including luxury yachts and fishing trawlers, are being used by traffickers, adding complexity to the fight against drug smuggling on Nigeria’s coasts.
The new Marine Command Headquarters, built with British support, marks a significant milestone in the NDLEA’s anti-drug operations.
Marwa expressed gratitude to the British High Commission and the Lagos State government for their continued backing, particularly commending the efforts of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for fostering a conducive operating environment for the agency.
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British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter lauded the NDLEA’s efforts, stating that the UK government’s support has led to increased drug detections and the disruption of criminal gangs.
Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by Secretary to the State Government Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, acknowledged the NDLEA’s role in enhancing the state’s security by curbing drug trafficking, adding that international partnerships are crucial in combating this global menace.
The newly inaugurated headquarters will further bolster NDLEA’s capacity to monitor Nigeria’s waterways, tighten the noose on drug traffickers, and prevent the smuggling of illicit drugs into the country.
