Nigeria is stepping up its fight against drug trafficking and cross-border crime, as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the Nigeria Customs Service move to close ranks in a new security alliance.
At a high-level meeting in Abuja on Monday, the heads of both agencies, Brigadier General Mohamed Marwa, retired, and Customs Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, sealed a comprehensive agreement aimed at strengthening coordination and eliminating long-standing operational gaps.
According to the NDLEA spokesman Mr. Femi Babafemi in a statement, the partnership comes amid growing concerns over the rising sophistication of transnational crime networks, with both agencies acknowledging that a more unified and intelligence-driven response is now critical.
Under the new framework, NDLEA and Customs will streamline their operations, reduce friction, and ensure faster, more secure information sharing to stay ahead of criminal activity.
Officials say the agreement also paves the way for joint task forces at key entry and exit points, backed by clear command structures, while preserving the legal mandates of each agency to avoid unnecessary interference.
In addition, a standing inter-agency committee will be set up to quickly resolve disputes, as both sides commit to closer collaboration across airports, seaports, and land borders, balancing tougher enforcement with the need to keep legitimate trade moving efficiently.
Both agency’s head describe the deal as a major step in the national interest, one they believe will significantly reinforce Nigeria’s security architecture and create a stronger frontline against the flow of illicit drugs into the country.
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen