The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria has joined forces with the Division of Controlled Drugs Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), and Controlled Substances Section, Ministry of Narcotics Control to curb drug trafficking between both countries. The NDLEA has been holding talks with its Pakistani counterparts to explore ways of collaboration and to restrict channels of trafficking illicit substances.
In a statement released by Femi Babafemi, Director, Media & Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, it was revealed that the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), approved a delegation comprising senior officials to meet with the Pakistani authorities in Vienna, Austria, on February 27th, 2023. The strategic case meeting, which brought the two countries face to face, focused on improved communication and exchange of real-time intelligence using the International Narcotics Control Board’s (INCB) communication tools, Ion Incident Communication System (IONICS).
At the end of the talks, both delegations adopted important resolutions on how to improve their cooperation and tackle the menace of illicit drug trafficking, particularly pharmaceutical opioids like Tramadol, between both countries. The Pakistani delegation expressed commitment to improving operational communication with the NDLEA through existing networks between both countries and using more frequently the possibilities offered by IONICS, the INCB’s tool of real-time communication.
This partnership between Nigeria and Pakistan is a significant step towards combating drug trafficking and reducing the impact of drug abuse on society. By collaborating and sharing intelligence, the NDLEA and its Pakistani counterparts can target drug trafficking networks more effectively and prevent the flow of illegal drugs across borders. It is hoped that this collaboration will lead to further partnerships between other countries to create a global effort to combat drug trafficking and promote a drug-free world.
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