National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Home Office International Operations (HOIO) of the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the fight against transnational organised crime, particularly the trafficking of illicit drugs and other prohibited commodities between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Speaking during the ceremony at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, yesterday, the Regional Manager (West Africa) of HOIO, Mr Ian Cunliffe, appreciated the productive relationship between NDLEA and HOIO.

“I’d like to start by thanking the chairman for his time today and the gracious welcome. I know the chairman had a great relationship with my predecessor, Christopher Hawksfield, and with HOIO, which has been productive and I am keen to maintain and enhance that relationship going forward. I think the signing of this MoU today is the beginning of the next phase of our relationship,” he said.

While acknowledging the excellent relationship with HOIO and Cunliffe’s predecessor, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, observed: “I have absolutely no doubt that we will also have the same relationship with you. I appreciate the HOIO for all the tremendous work that you have been doing with us.”

According to the NDLEA boss, the MoU “is not just an agreement, it is indeed a reaffirmation of our mutual trust, cooperation, collaboration and unwavering dedication to safeguarding the lives and future of our respective nations. Nigeria, through the NDLEA, continues to scale up its drug control measures according to the National Drug Control Master Plan.”

He went on: “We have a roadmap and this MoU adds to the strategy framework by establishing a clear, lawful and secure mechanism for sharing personal data, intelligence and operational insights in line with international conventions, national laws and global best practices. Together, I know we will close ranks against crime and deepen the bonds of mutual responsibility and respect.

“We are convinced that stronger intelligence sharing leads to stronger enforcement. This partnership will enhance our collective ability to interdict criminal suspects, disrupt trafficking networks, and trace illicit financial flows with greater precision and speed.”