In a strategic move to bolster international cooperation against illicit drug trafficking, Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing operational collaboration in narcotics control.
The agreement, which marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations between both nations, was signed in Riyadh by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC).
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), described the pact as long overdue, noting that it builds on nearly two decades of informal collaboration between the two agencies.
“Today’s event marks the culmination of the strong relationship between our two nations, particularly between our respective anti-narcotics agencies,”
Marwa said. “This MoU is not just a formality, but a demonstration of our shared commitment to tackling the global menace of illicit drugs.”
Marwa, who was accompanied by the agency’s Director of Operations and General Investigation, Ahmed Ningi, emphasized the growing complexity of the global drug trade and the need for cross-border cooperation.
“Illicit drugs have become a global challenge that transcends geographical and ideological divides. Addressing this crisis requires unity and a commitment to coordinated international action,” he stated.
The agreement outlines key areas of collaboration including intelligence sharing, joint investigations, exchange of data on drug convicts, and training initiatives.
Notably, Saudi Arabia has committed to making its training academy available to NDLEA operatives and providing operational logistics support.
Marwa also acknowledged Saudi Arabia as one of Nigeria’s long-standing allies in narcotics control, listing other global partners such as the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA), United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), and the French and German police forces.
In his remarks, the Director General of GDNC, Maj. Gen. Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Qarni, expressed satisfaction that the agreement had finally materialised after over three years of planning.
“I commend Gen. Marwa and his team for their resilience and sincerity in pushing this initiative through. The MoU underscores our shared resolve to dismantle the networks that fuel drug abuse and trafficking,” Al-Qarni said.
He further assured that the Saudi authorities would fully implement the terms of the MoU and offer increased support to Nigeria in the months ahead.
The signing of the MoU is expected to usher in a new era of synergy in the fight against narcotics, especially as drug trafficking continues to pose a transnational threat to security, health, and development.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
