France has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its outstanding efforts in combating illicit drug trafficking, highlighting the agency’s significant achievements in arrests, prosecutions, and convictions. This commendation was delivered by the French Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Marc Fonbaustier, during the handover of operational equipment donated by the French government to the NDLEA at the agency’s National Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, March 13, 2025. The recognition was conveyed through an official press release signed by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media & Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja.
Ambassador Fonbaustier praised the NDLEA’s success in drug enforcement, noting that the agency has recorded over 57,792 arrests, seized 9.9 million kilograms of illicit drugs, and secured 10,572 convictions in the past four years. According to him, these achievements position Nigeria as a key player in global efforts against drug trafficking, making it an ideal partner for collaboration with France. “You’re one of the best in the world in terms of the fight against illicit drugs and narcotics because of your operational successes, which give NDLEA an edge in terms of arrests, seizures, and high rates of convictions. As such, we can learn some lessons from you while you learn from us as well,” he stated.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), expressed his gratitude to the French government for its support. He acknowledged that Nigeria and France have maintained a strong bilateral relationship, particularly following the recent state visit by President Bola Tinubu to France. Marwa noted that the donated equipment would significantly enhance the agency’s operational capacity in its fight against drug-related crimes.
Furthermore, he reiterated the NDLEA’s request for specialized training in investigative techniques and cyber transactions, emphasizing the need for continued technical support from France. Marwa also sought assistance for the agency’s Alternative Development Project, which aims to encourage cannabis cultivators to transition to sustainable and lawful agricultural practices. He underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing drug-related challenges and ensuring effective law enforcement.
The event marked another milestone in the growing partnership between Nigeria and France, reinforcing shared commitments to tackling illicit drug trafficking and strengthening security cooperation between both nations.
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