The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) of Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering their cooperation against drug trafficking networks operating between the two nations.
Key provisions of the MoU include enhanced intelligence sharing, access to Saudi Arabia’s training academy for joint programs, provision of logistical support to NDLEA, coordinated investigations, and exchange of data on convicted offenders.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Riyadh, the NDLEA Chairman/CEO Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), accompanied by the Agency’s Director of Operations and General Investigation, Ahmed Sule Ningi, highlighted the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
“Today marks a particularly significant milestone- one that has been long overdue and holds immense importance for both our nations,” Marwa stated.
He emphasized the deeper strategic partnership represented by the MoU, which will facilitate “collective expertise and establish effective strategies to address the complexities of narcotics control.”
Marwa also stressed the global nature of the drug problem, calling for unity in combating the threat.
“Illicit drugs have become a global challenge that transcends geographical and ideological divides,” he said.
Read Also: NiDCOM Boss Honoured in Saudi Arabia
He noted the important role of multilateral cooperation under frameworks established by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and related conventions.
Highlighting Nigeria’s international collaborations, Marwa mentioned ongoing partnerships with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA), the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), French and German law enforcement agencies, and others.
He pointed out that Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have cooperated closely for nearly two decades, particularly in intelligence sharing and joint enforcement efforts.
He reported significant results from these efforts: over 57,792 arrests, including 65 drug barons, and the seizure of more than 10 million kilograms of illicit drugs in the past four years. In the same period, 10,572 convictions were recorded, and 22,047 drug users were treated and rehabilitated.
He cited notable past joint operations, including 44 arrests involving outbound flights to Saudi Arabia at major Nigerian airports and the 2021 seizure of 74.12 kg of Captagon opioids at Apapa Port—a first for Africa—thanks to Saudi intelligence support.
He also referenced successful joint investigations in 2023 that led to the dismantling of trafficking networks following arrests in Jeddah.
Marwa expressed gratitude to Saudi authorities for their support while identifying further areas where NDLEA would welcome continued assistance.
Director General of GDNC, Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Qarni, welcomed the formalization of the partnership after more than three years of preparation.
He praised Marwa and his team for their dedication and affirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the terms of the MoU and continued collaboration with the NDLEA.
Comments are closed.