Nigeria and India have taken a significant step towards combating illicit drug trafficking and abuse with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau of India.
The historic event, which took place in Abuja on Wednesday, signifies a strong partnership aimed at eradicating drug-related crimes in both countries.
Femi Babafemi, the Director of Media & Advocacy at NDLEA, released a statement affirming the agency’s dedication to raising awareness and advocating against drug abuse.
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, signed the MoU on behalf of Nigeria, expressing the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the safety of citizens and the global community.
He emphasized that the collaboration between the two agencies signifies a fundamental step in confronting and dismantling transnational drug trafficking networks that possess sophisticated capabilities to outmaneuver law enforcement agencies.
Marwa acknowledged the evolving nature of illicit drug problems and stressed the importance of partnerships in addressing the trafficking and abuse of narcotic and psychotropic substances.
The governments of Nigeria and India remain determined to combat the threats posed by illicit substances, particularly synthetic opioids and Amphetamine Type Stimulants (ATS).
Ambassador Shri G. Balasubramanian, the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria and Head of the Indian delegation, signed the MoU on behalf of his country.
He highlighted the negative impact of drugs on global financial and political systems, emphasizing that drug trafficking often contributes to terrorism financing.
Balasubramanian noted that drug abuse not only affects individuals’ health but also has adverse effects on the economy and national security.
He urged both countries to leverage their similar demographic advantages in addressing substance abuse issues and emphasized the need for joint efforts to prevent criminal drug trade.
The Indian government pledged its commitment to enforcing the provisions of the MoU.
The signing of this MoU between NDLEA and the Narcotics Control Bureau of India signifies a significant milestone in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
The strengthened cooperation between Nigeria and India aims to disrupt drug networks, prevent the flow of narcotics, psychotropic substances, and precursor chemicals, and ultimately protect the well-being of their citizens.
Both Nigeria and India are determined to collaborate closely in their efforts to curb the illicit drug trade and its detrimental effects on individuals, societies, and the global community.
