The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has bolstered its maritime surveillance and interdiction capabilities following a strategic training visit to the United Kingdom by officers from its Directorate of Seaport Operations.
Led by Deputy Commander Narcotics Mr. Aminu Jega, a six-man NDLEA team visited key British maritime and border enforcement facilities under the guidance of the UK Home Office International Operations.
Speaking after the training, Mr. Jega said the experience had deepened the team’s understanding of intelligence-led maritime enforcement and would enhance collaboration with other Nigerian maritime and security agencies.
According to a statement by the Director Media and Advocacy, NDLEA, Mr Femi Babafemi, the officers were exposed to international best practices in port security, maritime intelligence, and inter-agency coordination.
Others are live demonstrations of container inspections at Tilbury and Felixstowe Ports and advanced vessel rummage operations.While the second phase of the training, focused on Advanced Container Targeting, was conducted in Lagos for 19 additional NDLEA officers in November, also supported by the UK Home Office.
He said, the programs highlighted the use of cutting-edge technologies, including the Advanced Sea Searcher System, an underwater detection tool for locating concealed contraband.
NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa (rtd) praised the officers and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to leveraging technology and international partnerships to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against transnational drug trafficking through its seaports.
Reporting by Nosa Aituamen