The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have solidified their commitment to a collaborative approach in combating drug trafficking within Nigeria’s maritime domain. This renewed partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both agencies to address the growing concern of drug smuggling through the nation’s ports and waterways. The commitment was reiterated during a courtesy visit by Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman of NDLEA, to Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of NIMASA, at the NIMASA Towers in Lagos. The meeting served as a platform for both leaders to discuss strategies and reinforce their shared dedication to protecting Nigeria’s maritime interests from the detrimental effects of drug trafficking.
Dr. Mobereola commended the NDLEA for its recent successes in disrupting drug operations across Nigeria, acknowledging the agency’s vital role in safeguarding the nation’s security. He pledged NIMASA’s full support in collaborating with the NDLEA to ensure that Nigerian ports and terminals are not exploited for the illicit transport of drugs. This collaboration recognizes the increasing sophistication of drug trafficking networks and the need for a unified front to effectively counter their operations. The partnership seeks to create a robust security framework within the maritime domain, preventing the exploitation of shipping routes for criminal activities.
Brig. Gen. Marwa, echoing the sentiment of collaboration, emphasized the importance of joint efforts to address the emerging threat of drug trafficking through maritime channels. He highlighted the increasing use of maritime routes by transnational criminal organizations for drug smuggling, underscoring the need for enhanced security measures within Nigeria’s territorial waters. He pointed to recent seizures of illegal drugs at Lagos ports as evidence of the escalating problem and the necessity for proactive measures. This collaborative approach, Marwa stressed, is crucial in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and preventing the country from becoming a transit point for illicit drug trade.
The NDLEA Chairman further highlighted the agency’s proactive steps to address this maritime challenge, including the establishment of a dedicated Marine Command. This specialized unit within the NDLEA will focus specifically on combating drug trafficking activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain. He proposed close collaboration with NIMASA, particularly leveraging the resources and capabilities of the Deep Blue Project. This integration, Marwa believes, will significantly enhance the protection of Nigeria’s maritime space and prevent its exploitation for drug trafficking. Furthermore, the NDLEA pledged to support NIMASA in sensitizing its staff and cadets under the National Seafarers Development Programme about the dangers of drug abuse, creating a more informed and vigilant workforce within the maritime sector.
Dr. Mobereola, in response, assured Brig. Gen. Marwa of NIMASA’s commitment to exploring avenues for integrating NDLEA personnel into the existing maritime security architecture, particularly within the framework of the Deep Blue Project. This project, a joint initiative of the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Federal Ministry of Defence, is managed by NIMASA and involves several security agencies, including the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police, and the Department of State Services. The inclusion of NDLEA personnel within this framework will further strengthen the project’s capacity to combat drug trafficking and other illicit activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
This enhanced collaboration between NIMASA and NDLEA represents a significant step towards bolstering maritime security and combating drug trafficking in Nigeria. By combining their expertise, resources, and operational capabilities, both agencies aim to create a more secure maritime environment. The integration of NDLEA personnel within the Deep Blue Project, coupled with increased inter-agency communication and joint operations, will significantly enhance the capacity to detect, deter, and disrupt drug trafficking activities within Nigeria’s territorial waters. This partnership is not only vital for national security but also crucial for maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s maritime industry and preventing the country from becoming a hub for international drug trade.
