Marwa highlights training in fight against drug trafficking

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), has emphasised the critical role of training in addressing drug trafficking.

Marwa made this assertion during the closing ceremony of a two-week training for NDLEA officers on combating international drug trafficking, sponsored by the German government.

The event, held at the NDLEA’s national headquarters in Abuja, featured top officials of the agency and a German delegation led by a representative of the German embassy in Nigeria.

Speaking at the ceremony, Marwa underscored the need for skilled personnel to tackle drug-related challenges.

“To address the drug problem, the foremost priority is the professionalism of our human resources, achievable only through training,” he said. “Unless personnel are properly equipped with training, they cannot effectively perform their duties.”

The training, organised by the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt or BKA), covered key areas such as crime scene investigation techniques and the West Africa Police Information System (WAPIS).

The programme, which engaged 23 officers from various NDLEA departments, included classroom sessions, presentations, and practical exercises.

Ms Uduak Abasi Akpabio, a representative of the German embassy, highlighted her government’s commitment to security sector reforms.

“This programme reflects the German government’s dedication to fostering stability and addressing the menace of international drug trafficking,” she said. Akpabio praised the NDLEA as “a critical pillar in safeguarding Nigeria’s stability, security, and wellbeing.”

Marwa expressed gratitude for Germany’s support, noting that the partnership had already yielded results, such as the discovery of Captagon shipments at Lagos Port in 2021. He urged the trained officers to utilise their skills effectively and share their knowledge with colleagues.

The ceremony included the presentation of certificates to participants. Dominik Muller, the BKA liaison officer in Nigeria, also donated kits for substance testing to the NDLEA. In turn, the agency honoured the trainers with plaques and mementos in appreciation of their contributions.