The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has stated that Nigeria is no longer a permissive environment for international drug cartels, citing a surge in arrests, seizures, and convictions recorded by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over the past five years.
This position was made known by the UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Cheikh Ousmane Toure, during a ceremony in Abuja where the agency handed over newly equipped audiovisual interview rooms to the NDLEA.
LAGOS EYE NEWS reports that the facilities were provided by UNODC and funded by the United States International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (US-INL).
Toure described transnational drug trafficking as one of the most destabilizing forces globally, noting that it fuels corruption, finances violence, and exploits vulnerable populations. He highlighted Nigeria’s strategic position as a sub-regional hub, which has historically made it both a target and transit route for criminal networks spanning Latin America, Asia, and Africa.
He, however, commended the leadership of NDLEA under Mohamed Buba Marwa, stating that the agency has demonstrated “remarkable courage and professionalism” in tackling drug trafficking networks since his appointment in 2021.
According to him, intensified enforcement, increased seizures, and expanded prevention and treatment initiatives have sent a strong signal to transnational criminal organisations that Nigeria is no longer an enabling environment.
Toure also expressed appreciation to the United States government for funding the project, noting that the upgraded interview rooms reinforce the commitment to transparency, human rights, and adherence to the rule of law. He further called for the replication of such facilities across NDLEA commands nationwide.
In his remarks, NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Marwa, expressed gratitude to both UNODC and US-INL for their continued support. He described the new facilities as more than just physical infrastructure, but a significant step toward strengthening the integrity of the agency’s investigative processes.
Marwa disclosed that the NDLEA is at an advanced stage of digital transformation, adding that the state-of-the-art equipment positions the agency within the future of law enforcement, where technology supports justice delivery.
He emphasised that the equipment symbolises trust and confidence in the agency’s mission, noting that it would enhance investigative capacity, improve standards, and ensure more effective justice delivery. He assured stakeholders that the agency remains committed to translating such support into measurable outcomes in Nigeria’s fight against drug trafficking.
According to him, the facilities will provide staff with improved tools for their work, while also fostering greater transparency and professionalism for the benefit of the public.
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