The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has declared that Nigeria is no longer a permissive environment for international drug trafficking organisations, citing intensified enforcement actions, rising seizures, and increased convictions under ongoing reforms at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure, made the declaration on Monday in Abuja during the handover of newly constructed audiovisual interview rooms to the NDLEA, facilities designed to enhance modern interrogation and investigative processes.
The equipment, funded by the United States International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (US-INL), is part of international support aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
Toure said transnational drug trafficking remains one of the world’s most destabilising criminal threats, with links to corruption, violence, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations.
“Nigeria’s geographic location has historically made it both a transit hub and a target for drug trafficking networks spanning Latin America, Asia, and Africa,” he said.
However, he noted that recent operational reforms within the NDLEA have significantly changed that narrative.
“Under the leadership of Mohamed Buba Marwa, the NDLEA has demonstrated remarkable courage and professionalism. The intensified operations since 2021 have sent a strong deterrent message to organised criminal groups,” Toure stated.
He added that international collaboration has been central to the progress achieved, commending the United States Government for its continued financial and technical support.
According to him, the newly commissioned facilities represent more than infrastructure upgrades.
“These are not just rooms; they are investments in transparency, accountability, and the rule of law,” he said, urging that similar systems be replicated across NDLEA commands nationwide.
In his remarks, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd.), expressed appreciation to UNODC and US-INL for their partnership, describing the development as a milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s anti-narcotics campaign.
“We are not just commissioning rooms; we are strengthening the integrity of our investigative process,” Marwa said.
He disclosed that the agency is undergoing a broad digital transformation aimed at improving efficiency and aligning its operations with global best practices.
According to him, the integration of advanced audiovisual interrogation systems will enhance evidence gathering, improve accountability, and support fair prosecution processes.
Marwa also described the facilities as a symbol of growing international confidence in Nigeria’s anti-drug efforts, reaffirming the NDLEA’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and human rights compliance.
The event was attended by senior officials from the UNODC, NDLEA, and US-INL, including Deputy Director Douglas Grane.
The development highlights increasing global recognition of Nigeria’s evolving role in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and signals strengthened international cooperation in narcotics control efforts.