The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has declared that Nigeria is “no longer a permissive ground” for international drug cartels, citing what it described as intensified arrests, seizures and convictions under the current leadership of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Cheikh Ousmane Toure, made the assertion on Monday in Abuja during a ceremony where the agency handed over audiovisual interview and interrogation rooms to the NDLEA. The facilities were provided through UNODC and funded by the United States International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (US-INL).
Toure said transnational drug trafficking remains a major global security threat, warning that it fuels corruption, violence, and exploitation across vulnerable communities. He noted that Nigeria’s position as a transit hub between Latin America, Asia, and Africa has made it a strategic target for criminal syndicates.
However, he praised recent operations by the NDLEA under Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.), saying the agency has “demonstrated courage and professionalism” since 2021 through increased enforcement actions and expanded prevention efforts.
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“Since his appointment, the agency has significantly strengthened enforcement, increased major seizures, and expanded prevention and treatment initiatives,” Toure said. “The result has been clear: Nigeria is no longer a permissive environment for transnational criminal organizations.”
He also commended US support for the project, describing it as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and institutional capacity in Nigeria’s justice and security system. He urged that similar facilities be replicated across NDLEA commands nationwide.
At the ceremony, NDLEA Chairman/CEO, Marwa, welcomed the donation, saying the agency is “ready for the work ahead” and committed to deepening its operational reforms.
“We are not just commissioning rooms; we are upgrading the integrity of our investigative process,” Marwa said. He added that the NDLEA is undergoing “advanced digital transformation” aimed at modernising its operations and aligning with global law enforcement standards.
According to him, the new facilities would enhance transparency and improve the quality of interrogations conducted by the agency. He described the equipment as a symbol of trust from international partners.
“We promise not just to use this equipment, but to master it—ensuring every interrogation is conducted with the highest standards of professionalism and efficiency,” he said.
The Deputy Director of US-INL, Douglas Grane, alongside UNODC officials and senior NDLEA management staff, attended the event.
