By Nkechi Eze
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has declared that Nigeria is no longer a permissive environment for international drug cartels, citing significant gains recorded by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in arrests, seizures, and convictions over the past five years.
According to an official signed statement by the Director, Media and Advocacy of NDLEA, Femi Babafemi, the UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Cheikh Ousmane Toure, made the remark in Abuja on Monday, 27 April 2026, during the handover of newly constructed audiovisual interview rooms to the Agency.
The facilities, equipped with modern technology and funded by the United States International Narcotics and Law Enforcement, are aimed at enhancing investigative processes and strengthening adherence to global best practices in criminal justice administration.
Toure noted that transnational drug trafficking remains a major global threat, fueling corruption, violence, and exploitation, while identifying Nigeria as a critical hub previously targeted by international criminal networks. He, however, commended the leadership of NDLEA under Mohamed Buba Marwa for what he described as a significant transformation in the country’s anti-drug enforcement landscape.
“Under the strong and visionary leadership of Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), NDLEA has demonstrated remarkable courage and professionalism in confronting these networks,” he said, adding that the agency’s improved enforcement actions have sent a strong signal to transnational criminal organisations.
He also expressed appreciation to the United States government for its support, describing the intervention as an investment in transparency, rule of law, and institutional capacity. Toure further urged the replication of such facilities across NDLEA commands nationwide.
In his response, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), expressed gratitude to UNODC and US-INL for their continued partnership, assuring that the Agency remains committed to advancing its operational capabilities.
He described the newly installed facilities as a major step in the Agency’s ongoing digital transformation, noting that they would enhance investigative integrity and align operations with international standards.
“We are not just commissioning rooms; we are upgrading the integrity of our investigative process,” Marwa said. “This is where technology meets the rule of law.”
He added that the facilities would improve efficiency, transparency, and professionalism in interrogation procedures, while strengthening public confidence in the Agency.
Marwa further assured that NDLEA would maximise the use of the equipment to deliver measurable outcomes in the fight against drug trafficking and organised crime.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials from UNODC, representatives of US-INL, including Deputy Director Dr. Douglas Grane, as well as members of NDLEA’s top management team, highlighting the growing international collaboration in Nigeria’s counter-narcotics efforts.
