.…Highlights Partnership with UK in War Against Drug Trafficking
The Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), says, the agency has successfully arrested over 50,000 drug offenders, including 46 barons, and prosecution of over 9,000 individuals.
The NDLEA chairman gave the statistics of its successful crackdown on drug offenders during the Inauguration of a new operational facility donated by the British government.
He thanked the UK for their support, stating that the facility would enhance NDLEA’s capacity to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
Retired Brigadier General Marwa highlighted the importance of the partnership between Nigeria and the UK in combating drug trafficking, underscoring the significance of the newly inaugurated facility as a symbol of their collaborative efforts.
He praised the modern amenities and technology in the building, which will aid in intelligence analysis and strategic planning to disrupt drug networks.
He also commended NDLEA’s achievements in recent years, including the seizure of over 7,500 tonnes of illicit substances and the destruction of cannabis plantations.
In a statement by the Director, Media and Advocacy, Mr. Femi Babafemi, he quotes the NDLEA chairman as saying, “During this period, the NDLEA achieved significant milestones in its mission to combat drug trafficking and abuse. With a total of 50,901 arrests, including the apprehension of 46 drug barons, our agency has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to bringing those involved in illicit drug activities to justice”.
He added, “Furthermore, the conviction of 9,034 offenders underscores our relentless pursuit of accountability and deterrence in the fight against drug-related crimes. Our seizure of 7,560,748.5 kilograms (7,561 tonnes) not only disrupts the flow of illegal drugs but also serves as a significant blow to the criminal networks responsible for their distribution. We have taken decisive action against illicit drug crop cultivation with our search-and-destroy campaign against cannabis plantations which have led to the destruction of 1,057.33348 hectares of cannabis farms in the past three years.”
Acknowledging the role of British officials, the NDLEA boss called for further strengthening of the partnership between the two nations in combating drug trafficking and organised crime.
He urged renewed commitment and cooperation to ensure a safer future for all.
“This building complex stands not only as a physical structure but as a symbol of the enduring partnership between our two nations in the global fight against drug trafficking. It represents the culmination of years of cooperation, mutual trust, and shared determination to combat one of the most pressing threats to our societies”.
British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonny Baxter, reiterated the UK’s support for NDLEA and Nigeria in tackling the global challenge of drug trafficking.
“We’re delighted to continue our support for the NDLEA and the Nigerian government to tackle what is sadly a global industry, which needs a global response. I’ll like to join the chairman in affirming our continued support, our continued cooperation and indeed our continued pride in working together with ladies and gentlemen of this agency, the NDLEA.”
He expressed pride in the partnership and pledged continued cooperation in addressing criminal activities.
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