In a mutual agreement aimed at tackling the menace of transnational organized crime, particularly in the trafficking of illicit drugs and other prohibited commodities, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in collaboration with the Home Office International Operations (HOIO) of the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
According to a release signed by Mr. Femi Babafemi. the Director, Media and Advocacy NDLEA, Headquarters, Abuja, the Regional Manager (West Africa) of HOIO, Mr. Ian Cunliffe, MOU expressed his appreciation for the productive relationship between the NDLEA and HOIO.
Speaking during the signing ceremony which took place at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja on Monday, May 26, 2025, Mr. Ian emphasized saying, I would like to start by thanking the chairman for his time today and for the gracious welcome. I know the chairman had a great relationship with with my predecessor, Christopher Hawksfield and with HOIO which has been really, really productive and I am really keen to maintain and enhance that relationship going forward. ” He declared.I think the signing of this MOU today is the beginning of the next phase of our relationship.”
The MOU signifies a renewed commitment to mutual trust, cooperation, and collaboration between the two agencies. Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa emphasized further, stating that the importance of the agreement is not just a formal arrangement but a reaffirmation of the dedication to safeguarding the lives and futures of the citizens of both nations.
He disclosed that the partnership will enhance the collective ability to interdict criminal suspects, disrupt trafficking networks, and trace illicit financial flows with greater precision and speed. He highlighted that the MOU adds to the strategy framework by establishing a clear, lawful, and secure mechanism for sharing personal data, intelligence, and operational insights in line with international conventions, national laws, and global best practices.
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The NDLEA boss, Brig Gen Marwa, reciprocated the sentiments, appreciating the HOIO for all the tremendous work that has been done in collaboration with NDLEA. He expressed his conviction that the relationship with Mr. Cunliffe would be just as productive, stating, “I have absolutely no doubt that we will also have the same relationship with you.”
The MOU signing ceremony underscores the commitment of both Nigeria and the UK to scaling up drug control measures. According to Brig Gen Marwa, Nigeria, through the NDLEA, continues to implement its National Drug Control Master Plan, and this agreement adds value to the existing roadmap.
The partnership is anticipated to yield significant results in the fight against organized crime, particularly in the areas of intelligence sharing, operational cooperation, and the tracing of illicit financial flows. By deepening the bonds of mutual responsibility and respect, both agencies are poised to make considerable strides in ensuring the safety and security of their respective nations.
In his remarks, Brig Gen Marwa pointed out that stronger intelligence sharing leads to stronger enforcement, and this partnership will undoubtedly enhance their collective ability to tackle the challenges posed by transnational organized crime.
The signing of the MOU marks the commencement of a new phase in the relationship between NDLEA and HOIO, one that promises enhanced cooperation and a more robust framework for combating the trafficking of illicit drugs and other prohibited commodities between Nigeria and the UK.
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