NDLEA Chairman, Marwa, Visits NIMASA to Strengthen Partnership Against Drug Abuse, Trafficking

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reiterated its commitment to supporting the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in combating drug abuse and trafficking within Nigeria’s maritime ecosystem.

This pledge was made during a courtesy visit by NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), to the NIMASA Towers in Lagos.

NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, lauded the NDLEA for its remarkable achievements in combating drug-related crimes across Nigeria.

NIMASA’s Director General emphasized the Agency’s commitment to partnering with the NDLEA to secure Nigeria’s maritime space against illicit drug shipments.

Brig. Gen. Marwa, who expressed his gratitude for the warm reception emphasized the need for collaboration to address the rising threat of drug trafficking through maritime channels.

Marwa stated that the global maritime space has become a conduit for illegal drug movements, and NDLEA is keen to work with NIMASA to address this challenge.

The NDLEA Chairman proposed close collaboration between the NDLEA’s Marine Command and NIMASA, particularly through the Deep Blue Project.

This project is a joint initiative of the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Federal Ministry of Defence, aims to enhance the protection of Nigeria’s maritime space.

Marwa pledged NDLEA’s support in sensitizing NIMASA staff and cadets under the National Seafarers Development Program (NSDP) on the dangers of drug abuse.

Dr. Mobereola assured that NIMASA would explore avenues to integrate NDLEA personnel into the existing maritime security architecture, particularly the Deep Blue Project.

This partnership between NIMASA and NDLEA according to the Agencies chief executive officers is a significant step towards combating drug trafficking and securing Nigeria’s maritime domain.