The French government recently commended Nigeria’s NDLEA for combatting drug trafficking effectively, emphasizing its high prosecution and conviction rates.
Ambassador Marc Fonbaustier delivered this praise during a Thursday ceremony at the agency’s Abuja headquarters.
While presenting French-donated operational equipment, Fonbaustier highlighted NDLEA’s four-year milestones: 57,792 arrests, 9.9 million kilograms of drugs seized, and 10,572 convictions. These results, he asserted, solidify the agency’s global leadership against narcotics.
“You are one of the best in the world in terms of the fight against illicit drugs and narcotics,” Fonbaustier remarked, underscoring NDLEA’s unparalleled impact.
“Your operational successes in arrests, seizures, and high conviction rates position Nigeria as a strong partner for collaboration with France. We can learn from your strategies while also sharing our expertise.”
The ambassador’s comments reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in its efforts to curb drug-related crimes. The donated equipment is expected to bolster NDLEA’s capacity to carry out its operations more effectively.
NDLEA Chairman Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) thanked France for its support and highlighted their partnership’s value during his response. He noted that France’s operational tools would boost NDLEA’s ability to counter drug threats.
Marwa recently highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to France, emphasizing strengthened Franco-Nigerian collaboration.
She stated, “This partnership will boost operational efficiency in combating drug crimes via critical resource allocation.”
By prioritizing joint efforts, Marwa affirmed the initiative addresses transnational threats.
“Proactive strategies,” she added, “ensure swift responses to illicit activities, safeguarding communities through shared expertise.”
Further, Marwa urged France to provide specialized cybercrime investigation training, stressing its necessity to combat digital threats.
Meanwhile, he sought backing for NDLEA’s Alternative Development Project, which transitions cannabis farmers to sustainable crops.
The collaboration between Nigeria and France reflects a shared commitment to combating transnational drug trafficking and fostering global security. As both nations continue to strengthen their ties, the NDLEA’s operational successes serve as a model for effective law enforcement in addressing the global drug menace.
