NDLEA Gains Global Recognition at UK Maritime Security Summit

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

Nigeria’s anti-drug agency has been praised for its growing role in global counter-narcotics efforts following its participation in a major maritime security conference in the United Kingdom.

According to a statement signed by the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the Chairman of the agency, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended the involvement of its Maritime Intelligence Officers at the North Sea and Channel Maritime Information Group meeting held in Southampton, alongside operational exchanges in Felixstowe and Portsmouth.

Marwa said Nigeria’s invitation as the only African country at the conference reflects increasing international recognition of the agency’s operational capacity and professionalism. He described the engagement, which included joint exercises with the UK Border Force, as a milestone in strengthening collaboration against transnational organised crime.

He added that exposure to advanced interdiction methods, intelligence-sharing systems and real-time maritime operations would enhance the agency’s ability to disrupt drug trafficking networks along Nigeria’s waterways.

The NDLEA chief said such international partnerships are vital to building an intelligence-driven enforcement system capable of responding to evolving trafficking trends, while reaffirming the agency’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with global partners.

The delegation, led by Deputy Commander of Narcotics Aminu Jega, attended the conference between 4 and 12 March 2026. He said the visit aimed to deepen operational cooperation and intelligence sharing between Nigerian and UK authorities.

Jega also noted that the conference brought together maritime security stakeholders from across Europe and the UK to address emerging threats and improve joint operational strategies. He added that the NDLEA’s presentation at the event drew positive feedback and interest from participating agencies.