NDLEA’s Enhanced Marine Operations Tighten Noose on Drug Barons and Cartels

The Chairman and Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking, particularly within Nigeria’s maritime sector. Speaking at the commissioning of the NDLEA Marine Command Headquarters in Lagos, a facility built and donated by the British Government, Marwa expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to dismantle drug cartels exploiting Nigeria’s waterways.

Marwa noted that the increasing arrests and drug seizures, made possible by the agency’s enhanced operations in seaports and along maritime routes, justify the decision to upgrade the NDLEA’s Marine Unit to a full-fledged command in 2022. “Our balance sheet of arrests and seizures of drugs within the maritime space has maintained an upward swing,” he said, citing the interception of over 61,688.79 kg of various drugs and the arrest of 41 suspects. These successes, according to Marwa, reflect the growing effectiveness of NDLEA’s marine operations in collaboration with other maritime law enforcement agencies.

British Government’s Support Bolsters NDLEA’s Anti-Drug Efforts

The UK government has played a significant role in empowering the NDLEA’s efforts to combat drug trafficking in Nigeria. The commissioning of the Marine Command Headquarters in Lagos follows the completion of similar projects supported by the British Government, including a state-of-the-art facility at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Speaking at the event, British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in tackling drug trafficking, which he said is critical for both Nigeria and the UK.

Baxter praised the NDLEA’s efforts, stating that the increase in drug detections in both Nigeria and the UK highlights the effectiveness of joint operations between the two countries. He stressed that “our efforts are paying dividends” as more drugs are intercepted and more criminal networks are disrupted. He reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to working closely with Nigeria to combat drug-related crimes, stressing the need for continued collaboration to address the complex and evolving challenges posed by international drug cartels.

Maritime Drug Trafficking: A Growing Threat

The illicit drug trade via maritime routes remains a serious threat to Nigeria and the global community. According to data from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), West Africa has become a significant transit point for narcotics, with many drug shipments originating from South America. Marwa highlighted recent cases involving merchant ships and personal vessels transporting drugs into Nigeria, underscoring the growing complexity of maritime drug trafficking.

“The operation of our Special Marine Squad on the waterways of Lagos has shown the increasing complexity of maritime drug trafficking,” Marwa stated, noting that luxury yachts, modified boats, and fishing trawlers are also being used to smuggle drugs. He called for intensified coastal monitoring and stronger collaboration among security agencies to track and profile vessels operating on Nigeria’s waterways. Marwa expressed optimism that the newly commissioned Marine Command Headquarters will enhance the agency’s capacity to monitor and intercept drug shipments along Nigeria’s coasts.

Lagos State Commends NDLEA’s Role in Securing Maritime Borders

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, praised the NDLEA for its pivotal role in curbing the illegal drug trade in Lagos. “Your efforts have not only protected our citizens but also enhanced the overall security and well-being of our state,” Sanwo-Olu said. He acknowledged the significant contribution of the British Government in enhancing the NDLEA’s operational capacity, particularly in coastal regions like Lagos, where drug trafficking poses a considerable threat.

The governor emphasized the importance of international cooperation in combating drug trafficking, highlighting that the new Marine Command Headquarters would enable the NDLEA to more effectively patrol Nigeria’s waters and disrupt drug trafficking networks. “This facility marks a significant milestone in our collective fight against drug-related crimes,” he said, expressing confidence that the NDLEA’s strengthened presence will contribute to a more secure and drug-free Lagos.