Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance their partnership in narcotics control. The agreement, signed on Monday in Riyadh, was between Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC).
According to Femi Babafemi, NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, the two countries have agreed to strengthen efforts against drug trafficking networks operating within their territories. The MoU underscores a long-standing alliance between the nations, particularly in the fight against narcotics.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), who attended the signing with the Agency’s Director of Operations and General Investigation, Ahmed Ningi, emphasized the significance of the agreement, noting that it would deepen the bilateral relations between the two countries. Marwa highlighted that illicit drugs are a global issue that requires international collaboration, and this MoU would leverage both countries’ expertise to address the complexities of narcotics control.
Marwa also pointed out Nigeria’s previous collaborations with global bodies such as the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the UK National Crime Agency (NCA), and other international organizations.
Maj. Gen. Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Qarni, Director General of Saudi Arabia’s GDNC, expressed satisfaction that the MoU was finalized after three years of discussions. He praised Marwa and his team for their dedication to combating illicit drug trafficking and assured continued support from Saudi Arabia.
Key provisions of the MoU include the exchange of intelligence, joint training using Saudi Arabia’s training academy, provision of operational logistics, and cooperation in joint investigations, as well as the exchange of data on convicts.
