The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse in Nigeria.
This resolve was underscored during a high-level meeting held at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja between the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the new US-DEA Country Attaché to Nigeria, Ms. Daphne Morrison.
Morrison, who is newly assigned to Nigeria, emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between both agencies, noting that her visit was to reinforce existing ties and chart a course for deeper partnership.
“I wanted to make this one of my priorities to come meet with you so we can continue to collaborate and work together. Thank you for your support over the years. I’m ready to get back in and do some really great things with you,” she said.
She disclosed that the US-DEA plans to organize additional training for NDLEA’s Special Operations Units and is looking forward to implementing several joint operations in targeted areas of mutual interest.
In response, Marwa commended the longstanding cooperation with the DEA, praising Morrison’s predecessors for their support and expressing optimism for even greater collaboration under her leadership.
“They’ve been very, very supportive, and I have absolutely no doubt that it will be the same, if not better, with you,” Marwa said.
He highlighted recent developments in the NDLEA’s structure, including an expanded workforce and operational framework, which have led to significant achievements in both drug supply suppression and demand reduction efforts.
Marwa also acknowledged past support from the DEA in the areas of equipment provision, joint operations, and personnel training. “We appreciate all the support we’ve been receiving, and we look forward to more,” he added.
The meeting marks a renewed chapter in the bilateral effort to tackle narcotics trafficking, with both agencies pledging continued cooperation in training, intelligence sharing, and special operations.
