The French government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fight against illicit drugs, donating operational equipment to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to enhance its enforcement capabilities.
The equipment was officially handed over by French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, to NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), at the agency’s National Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
France Applauds NDLEA’s Achievements
During the presentation, Ambassador Fonbaustier praised the NDLEA for its remarkable operational success in tackling drug trafficking and securing convictions.
“You’re one of the best in the world in terms of the fight against illicit drugs and narcotics because of your operational successes. NDLEA has an edge in terms of arrests, seizures, and high conviction rates. We can learn from you just as you can learn from us,” Fonbaustier said.
According to NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, the ambassador highlighted Nigeria’s impressive anti-drug efforts, noting that in the past four years, the agency has recorded:
- 57,792 arrests
- 9.9 million kilograms of drug seizures
- 10,572 convictions
These figures reflect Nigeria’s commitment to the global war on drug trafficking, with the NDLEA emerging as one of the most effective drug enforcement agencies globally.
Marwa Acknowledges France’s Support, Calls for Further Collaboration
In his response, Brig. Gen. Marwa expressed gratitude for France’s donation, emphasizing that the equipment will significantly enhance the agency’s operational efficiency.
“These tools are very important operational assets that will go a long way in enhancing our work. We also look forward to further collaborations, especially in the areas of investigation, cyber transactions, and support for our Alternative Development Project.”
Marwa noted that Nigeria and France’s relationship has deepened, particularly following President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to France. He emphasized the importance of continued partnership, especially in:
- Intelligence sharing and investigations
- Cybercrime monitoring related to drug transactions
- Alternative development programs to encourage cannabis farmers to switch to legal crops
France-Nigeria Cooperation in Global Drug War
France’s latest support aligns with global efforts to strengthen law enforcement against drug cartels, particularly in Africa. With drug trafficking becoming a major security threat, international partnerships are crucial in tackling drug-related crimes, cyber transactions, and transnational smuggling networks.
The donation underscores France’s commitment to helping Nigeria curb drug trafficking, enhance its enforcement operations, and promote sustainable drug control measures.
As both nations intensify collaboration, this partnership is expected to yield further advancements in drug enforcement, intelligence gathering, and capacity building, ensuring that Nigeria continues to be a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs.
