The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has declared that Nigeria is no longer a permissive ground for international drug cartels, citing the significant enforcement successes recorded by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in recent years.
UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Cheikh Ousmane Toure, made this known on Monday, April 27, in Abuja during the handover of state-of-the-art audiovisual interview rooms to the NDLEA. The facilities, funded by the United States International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (US-INL), are designed to strengthen investigative processes and enhance transparency in law enforcement operations.
Toure noted that transnational drug trafficking remains a major global threat, fuelling corruption, violence, and social instability. He, however, commended the NDLEA’s progress under the leadership of its Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Buba Marwa, highlighting increased arrests, seizures, and convictions since his appointment in 2021.
“Nigeria, at a critical sub-regional crossroads, has been both a target and transit hub for criminal networks stretching from Latin America to Asia and across Africa,” he said. “But the strong and coordinated response by NDLEA has sent a clear message—Nigeria is no longer a permissive environment for drug trafficking.”
He further praised the United States for its support, describing the project as an investment in justice, transparency, and the rule of law. Toure also called for the replication of the modern interview facilities across NDLEA commands nationwide.
In his remarks, Marwa expressed appreciation to UNODC and US-INL for their continued partnership, assuring that the Agency remains committed to intensifying its fight against illicit drug trafficking.
“We are not just commissioning rooms; we are upgrading the integrity of our investigative process,” he said. “This development aligns with our ongoing digital transformation and reinforces our commitment to global best practices and human rights standards.”
Marwa emphasized that the new facilities would enhance investigative capacity, improve professionalism, and ensure more effective delivery of justice. He added that NDLEA is prepared to maximise the benefits of the equipment to achieve measurable outcomes in its counter-narcotics operations.
The event was attended by the Deputy Director of US-INL, Douglas Grane, alongside senior officials from UNODC and the NDLEA.
The donation mark another milestone in international collaboration aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s response to drug trafficking and organised crime.
