…… Marwa hails Nigeria-French partnership, says the donation will enhance the Agency’s work
The French government has commended the operational successes of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA), especially in areas of illicit drug control and high rates of prosecution and conviction of offenders.
According to a press release on Thursday, 13th March 2025, signed by the NDLEA Director of Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the commendation was given by the French Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Marc Fonbaustier, while handing over some operational equipment donated by the French government to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), at the Agency’s National Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, 13th March 2025.
He noted that the agency had done very well in the fight against illicit drugs and narcotics with over 57,792 arrests, 9.9 million kilograms of seizures, and 10,572 convictions within a space of four years. He added that Nigeria’s records of achievements in the fight against illicit drugs place the country in a good position for great partnership and collaboration with France.
“You’re one of the best in the world in terms of fighting against illicit drugs and narcotics because of your operational successes, which give NDLEA an edge in terms of arrests, seizures, and a high rate of convictions, and as such we can learn some lessons from you while you learn from us as well,” Ambassador Fonbaustier stated.
In his remark, Marwa expressed appreciation for the donation of the equipment to NDLEA, noting that “Nigeria and France have been good partners, especially following the recent state visit by President Bola Tinubu to France.” He stated that “the equipment is a very important operational tool that will go a long way to enhance our work.”
He emphasised earlier requests for special training on investigation and cyber transactions as well as support for the Alternative Development Project initiative of the agency aimed at encouraging cannabis growers to embrace alternative crops.
