NDLEA, Navy join forces to combat drug trafficking

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Tin Can Island Command, and the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral M.G. Oamen, have pledged to collaborate in tackling the menace of illicit drug trafficking.

The assurance was given during an advocacy visit by NDLEA Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju to the naval chief, aimed at strengthening interdiction efforts at Tin Can Island Port, Lagos.

Oamen expressed the Navy’s commitment to supporting the NDLEA’s initiatives and underscored the importance of collaboration among security agencies in addressing drug-related challenges.

“The Navy is fully aware that drug trafficking and abuse are serious transnational crimes capable of disrupting economic growth and development,” he said. “Working together to combat drug trafficking and related criminality is in the interest of the country, and the Nigerian Navy will give necessary support in dislodging drug criminals.” Ofoyeju highlighted the strategic role of the Navy in ensuring maritime security and preventing drug cartels from exploiting the nation’s waterways.

“The sea routes are a major gateway that can be exploited by drug trafficking cartels. NDLEA recognises your strength and unique selling point on issues related to national maritime security, and we are delighted to collaborate with you in line with the cardinal policy thrust of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa,” he said.

During the visit, Oamen was decorated as a War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) partner, a gesture Ofoyeju described as a significant step in fostering inter-agency collaboration against drug abuse and trafficking.

“This engagement highlights our ongoing commitment to the health and safety of our institutions. Joining forces with your esteemed and impregnable force will significantly disrupt the logistics of illicit drug trafficking and simultaneously address drug abuse challenges within our communities,” Ofoyeju stated.

The visit also featured a sensitisation lecture by Ofoyeju on the topic, “The Dangers of Drug Abuse: Our Roles and Responsibilities.” The lecture aimed to raise awareness among naval personnel about the dangers of drug abuse and enhance collaboration between the NDLEA and the Nigerian Navy in combating narcotics. Participants commended the initiative and engaged in a question-and-answer session to deepen their understanding of the issue.