… Marwa seeks further assistance for Nigeria’s fight against illicit drugs
The United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s (NDLEA) operational successes and assured its Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, of more support as well as further collaboration in the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
According to a press release on Monday, 28th April 2025, signed by the NDLEA Director of Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the commendation and assurance were given by the Director of INL in Nigeria, Ms. Candace Spradley, who led her colleague, Ms. Ada Aki on a courtesy visit to Marwa at the Agency’s national headquarters in Abuja on Monday, 28th April 2025.
She said their visit was to reinforce the commitment of the US government to the fight against narcotics, especially opioids, and also deepen the current collaboration between NDLEA and INL.
She stated, “Our visit underscores the importance of our collaboration and assures you that we’re ready to support your work. If there is any area of assistance you would like, we’ll be ready to assist you.”
In his response, Marwa emphasised the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking. He equally noted US President Donald Trump’s keen interest in fighting the drug scourge.
While commending INL for its support to NDLEA, which has, among others, positioned the Agency as the number one anti-narcotics body in Africa, Marwa said more assistance will still be needed from the US and other international partners to sustain the current operational successes of the Agency.
He listed areas of need for INL consideration to include operational vehicles, forensic laboratory equipment, training for forensic analysts, training and capability in cyberspace and crypto investigation, as well as drug testing kits for field operations, among others.
