The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen operational cooperation and crack down on international drug trafficking networks operating between the two countries.
The agreement aims to fortify the frontline of law enforcement in the global war against illicit drug trade.
During the signing ceremony, the Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), emphasized that effectively addressing the drug crisis requires putting aside artificial boundaries and working in unity.
He noted that Nigeria’s longstanding relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has contributed to significant achievements – including the arrest of over 57,792 suspects, among them 65 drug barons, and the seizure of more than 10 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs over the past four years.
Additionally, the collaboration has led to the conviction of over 10,572 offenders, and the treatment and rehabilitation of 22,047 drug users across 33 NDLEA treatment centers during the same period.
In his remarks, the Director General of Saudi Arabia’s GDNC, Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Qarni, praised Marwa and the NDLEA for their resilience, integrity, and dedication to the global fight against drug trafficking.
He reaffirmed the Saudi government’s commitment to the MoU and pledged continued support for the NDLEA in the months ahead.
© WAVN