U.S. Donates Office Space to NDLEA in Lagos, Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation in Combatting Drug Trafficking

The new office, equipped with solar power, enhances the NDLEA's capacity to investigate and disrupt drug trafficking networks.

In a significant move to strengthen U.S.-Nigeria security cooperation, the United States Government, through the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), has donated a state-of-the-art office space to the Nigerian National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Lagos. The donation, which includes a solar-powered system for sustainable energy, aims to bolster the NDLEA's capacity to effectively tackle drug trafficking and narcotics-related crimes.

The keys to the new facility were officially handed over by Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg to NDLEA Chairman and CEO, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Ret.) during a formal ceremony attended by representatives from both AFRICOM and the DEA. The office space is designed to provide a secure and professional environment for NDLEA officers to perform critical investigative duties, including processing detainees and conducting post-arrest interviews.

Strengthening Security Cooperation

Acting Consul General Gorg highlighted that the new office space marks a significant step forward in the partnership between the U.S. and Nigeria, demonstrating continued support for counter-narcotics efforts. She expressed, “The U.S.-Nigeria security partnership remains strong. This donation is the latest example of the robust and productive cooperation between the U.S. government and the NDLEA.”

Gorg further underscored the long-standing collaboration between the U.S. and Nigeria, noting that joint efforts have built the capacity of Nigerian authorities to disrupt drug trafficking networks, dismantle methamphetamine labs, and conduct advanced forensic analyses on synthetic drugs.

Enhanced Operational Efficiency

NDLEA Chairman/CEO Marwa praised the U.S.-Nigeria partnership, acknowledging the critical role played by the United States in supporting Nigeria’s efforts to combat drug trafficking. He noted that this collaboration has significantly improved the operational efficiency of the NDLEA, enabling the agency to better carry out its mission of countering narcotics and reducing the impact of illicit drugs on Nigerian society.

“The U.S. has been a steadfast ally in our fight against drug-related crimes,” Marwa stated. He also emphasized the role of modern technology in enhancing the NDLEA’s capabilities, with particular mention of a major upgrade to the agency’s chemical forensic laboratory.

U.S. Investment in NDLEA’s Capacity Building

In 2024, the U.S. government invested approximately $500,000 to modernize and equip the NDLEA’s chemical forensic laboratory at the Lagos zonal office. The newly upgraded laboratory now features cutting-edge technology, allowing the NDLEA to more effectively analyze suspicious substances and process evidence from crime scenes and suspects.

This investment is part of a broader effort by the U.S. Mission to Nigeria to support NDLEA in its efforts to combat narcotics trafficking. The collaboration includes training programs in areas such as intelligence gathering, evidence collection, and tactical operations, along with continued donations of specialized equipment.

A History of Cooperation

Since its establishment in 1990, the NDLEA has worked closely with the U.S. Mission to combat the illegal drug trade. This long-standing partnership has focused on capacity-building measures, including training, technical assistance, and the provision of resources. The U.S. government’s support has been pivotal in strengthening Nigeria’s efforts to address the growing challenges posed by drug trafficking, and has contributed to improving law enforcement capabilities in the country.

The latest donation is a testament to the ongoing commitment of the U.S. government to assist Nigeria in its efforts to create a safer, drug-free society. With continued cooperation, the partnership is expected to produce even more significant results in the fight against the global drug trade.