By HeapNews
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched a new Marine Command Headquarters, marking a significant boost in its efforts to curb drug trafficking within Nigeria’s maritime space. The new facility, located in Lagos, was built and donated by the British Government, highlighting the growing international collaboration in the fight against narcotics.
Chairman of the NDLEA Mohamed Buba Marwa, expressed gratitude to the British High Commission for their contribution, noting the strategic importance of the new command. “The timely delivery of this project and the high standard of the finished work speak volumes about the commitment of the British Government to support our efforts,” Marwa stated during the commissioning ceremony.
Marwa emphasized the increasing threat of maritime drug trafficking, referencing the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which reports that over 80% of global trade is conducted via sea routes. “This is equally true of illicit drug trade because maritime routes have long been exploited by drug traffickers,” Marwa said, highlighting the dangers posed by organized crime and terrorism linked to the drug trade.
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The NDLEA’s Marine Command has already shown promising results since its upgrade in 2022. Marwa reported that the command’s operations led to the seizure of over 61,000 kg of drugs and the arrest of 41 suspects, 15 of whom have been successfully prosecuted. “Our balance sheet of arrests and seizures of drugs within the maritime space has maintained an upward swing,” he added.
The British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, justified the UK’s support for the project, citing an increase in drug detections in both Nigeria and the UK. “We are jointly preventing more and more drugs from crossing borders and disrupting more and more gangs,” Baxter said, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration between the two nations.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, also acknowledged the NDLEA’s crucial role in maintaining security in Lagos. “The NDLEA’s presence in Lagos has been pivotal in curbing the illegal drug trade. Your efforts have not only protected our citizens, but also enhanced the overall security and well-being of our state,” the governor remarked.