UNODC Declares Nigeria No Longer Safe Haven for Drug Cartels, Commends NDLEA’s Crackdown

UNODC Declares Nigeria No Longer Safe Haven for Drug Cartels, Commends NDLEA’s Crackdown

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has declared that Nigeria is no longer a permissive environment for international drug cartels, citing a surge in arrests, seizures, and convictions under the current leadership of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over the past five years.

The UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Cheikh Ousmane Toure, made the assertion on Monday in Abuja during the handover of newly equipped audiovisual interview rooms to the NDLEA. The facilities, funded by the United States International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (US-INL), are designed to strengthen investigative processes through modern technology.

Toure described transnational drug trafficking as one of the most destabilising forces globally, noting that it fuels corruption, finances violence, and exploits vulnerable populations. He acknowledged Nigeria’s strategic position as both a former target and transit hub for international criminal networks spanning Latin America, Asia, and Africa.

He, however, commended the leadership of NDLEA under its Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Buba Marwa, for what he termed “remarkable courage and professionalism” in tackling drug-related crimes since 2021. According to him, the agency’s intensified enforcement efforts and expanded prevention initiatives have sent a strong deterrent message to organised criminal groups.

“Nigeria is no longer a permissive environment,” Toure said, emphasising that the progress recorded reflects a commitment to transparency, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for human rights.

He also expressed appreciation to the United States government for its support, noting that the investment represents more than infrastructure but a broader commitment to strengthening justice systems and public safety. He urged that similar facilities be replicated across NDLEA commands nationwide.

In his remarks, Marwa welcomed the donation and reaffirmed the agency’s readiness to deepen its anti-narcotics operations. He said the introduction of the state-of-the-art interview rooms aligns with NDLEA’s ongoing digital transformation drive.

“We are not just commissioning rooms; we are upgrading the integrity of our investigative process. This is where technology meets the rule of law,” he stated.

Marwa added that the new facilities would enhance investigative standards, improve transparency, and boost the agency’s capacity to deliver justice efficiently. He assured stakeholders that the NDLEA would maximise the equipment to achieve measurable outcomes in its fight against drug trafficking.

The event was attended by senior officials from UNODC, representatives of the US-INL, including Deputy Director Dr. Douglas Grane, and top management staff of the NDLEA.