The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has stated that Nigeria is no longer a permissive environment for international drug cartels, citing a rise in arrests, seizures and convictions driven by reforms within the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure, made the assertion in Abuja during the handover of newly constructed audiovisual interview rooms to the NDLEA.
The facilities, equipped with modern interrogation technology, were delivered by UNODC with funding support from the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.
Toure described transnational drug trafficking as a major global threat linked to corruption, violence and the exploitation of vulnerable populations. He noted that Nigeria’s strategic location had historically made it a transit hub for drug networks spanning Latin America, Asia and Africa, but said recent enforcement actions have significantly altered that perception.
He commended the leadership of Mohamed Buba Marwa, noting that intensified operations since 2021 have strengthened deterrence against organised criminal groups.
The UNODC official stressed the importance of sustained international cooperation, describing the newly commissioned facilities as an investment in transparency, accountability and the rule of law. He also called for the replication of such systems across NDLEA commands nationwide to further enhance investigative capacity.
In his remarks, Marwa expressed appreciation to UNODC and US-INL for their continued support, stating that the agency remains committed to consolidating recent gains.
He noted that the NDLEA is undergoing a broad digital transformation, with the integration of advanced interrogation technology expected to improve operational efficiency and align Nigeria’s law enforcement practices with global standards.
According to him, the facilities symbolise growing international confidence in Nigeria’s anti-narcotics efforts and will strengthen the integrity of investigative processes while upholding professionalism, transparency and human rights.
The event was attended by senior officials from UNODC, NDLEA and US-INL, including Deputy Director Douglas Grane, underscoring deepening collaboration in the global fight against drug trafficking.
