France has praised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), for its successes in combating illicit drugs, highlighting its high rate of arrests, seizures, and convictions.
The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, made the commendation on Thursday, while handing over operational equipment donated by France to the NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Fonbaustier lauded the NDLEA’s impressive record of over 57,792 arrests, 9.9 million kilograms of drug seizures, and 10,572 convictions within four years.
He stated that Nigeria’s successes in drug enforcement make it a valuable partner for international collaboration.
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“You are one of the best in the world in terms of the fight against illicit drugs, and narcotics because of your operational successes.
“NDLEA’s high rate of arrests, seizures, and convictions gives it an edge globally. We can learn from you, just as you can learn from us,” the ambassador said.
Marwa expressed gratitude for France’s support, describing the donated equipment as essential tools that will enhance the agency’s operations.
He also emphasized Nigeria’s strong partnership with France, especially following President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to that country.
The NDLEA boss reiterated the agency’s request for specialized training in investigation, and cyber transactions, as well as support for its alternative development project, which aims to help cannabis farmers transition to legal agricultural practices.