The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Tincan Island Port Strategic Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Comptroller, Tincan Island Port, Dera Nnadi, are strategizing to enhance port security to combat drug trafficking, boost revenue generation, and facilitate trade.
Comptroller Nnadi, who received the NDLEA Tincan delegation, emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving critical national goals and priorities.
“I am glad to welcome you and your team to my office. This partnership is essential, not only to secure our port but also to boost legitimate trade in the overall interest of our country. We are committed to ensuring that trade is conducted in a safe and efficient manner,” Nnadi noted.
During the advocacy engagement that took place over the weekend, the officials stressed the importance of cooperation between the two agencies in tackling smuggling and illicit drug trafficking effectively.
Commander Mitchell noted his determination to make Tincan Island Port impenetrable to drug trafficking cartels.
“I have the mandate of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (RTD), to implement strict measures that will accentuate zero tolerance for drug trafficking at the port,” he said.
Mitchell stressed the critical need for synergy in line with the 2023 Memorandum of Understanding signed by the NDLEA and the Nigeria Customs Service. “Our cardinal objective is to create a united front against drug trafficking through the sharing of intelligence to enhance our operational capabilities and respond swiftly to emerging threats,” the commander added.
The NDLEA Tincan Commander highlighted that seaports play a crucial role in trade and commerce, adding that both agencies must promote efficiency and integrity in port operations.
“It is pertinent to prioritise safety and security through effective drug control measures and other key responsibilities aimed at facilitating trade and commerce under the presidential initiative of the ease of doing business.”
Key issues discussed included joint training programs and the use of technology to equip personnel from both agencies with the skills needed to detect and interdict illicit drug consignments effectively. This initiative is expected to strengthen their operational capacity and improve inter-agency cooperation, focusing particularly on preventing the trafficking of dangerous substances like synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.
Both leaders agreed on the urgent need to educate port workers and the public on the dangers of drug abuse. “An informed workforce is our best defence against drug-related crimes. We must take proactive steps to raise awareness,” Nnadi added.
Joint cargo inspections were also identified as an essential area of collaboration. The agencies recognised that coordinated inspections would not only deter drug smuggling but also streamline trade processes, aligning with the federal government’s ease of doing business policy.
A highlight of the meeting was the decoration of Comptroller Dera by Commander Mitchell as a War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Ambassador. Both leaders expressed optimism about the impact of their collaboration on national security and trade facilitation. They stressed that enhanced cooperation would not only benefit their agencies but also positively impact Nigeria’s economy and public health, ensuring the port remains impenetrable to criminal activities.
The advocacy visit marks a pivotal step towards fostering a secure and conducive environment at Tincan Island Port, crucial for national security and economic growth.
