The Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral M.G. Oamen, has assured the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Tincan Island Port Strategic Commander Ofoyeju Mitchell of collaboration in combating illicit drug trafficking.
The naval boss gave the assurance during an advocacy visit to the Western Naval Command on Wednesday in a concerted effort to reinforce interdiction capabilities at the Tincan Island Port, Lagos.
Rear Admiral Oamen expressed strong support for the NDLEA’s initiatives and underscored the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to collaborate with law enforcement agencies in addressing the scourge of drug abuse.
“The Navy is fully aware that drug trafficking and abuse are serious transnational crimes capable of disrupting economic growth and development. Working together to combat drug trafficking and related criminality is in the interest of the country, and the Nigerian Navy will give necessary support in dislodging drug criminals,” he affirmed.
During the visit, Commander Mitchell emphasised the critical role that the Nigeria Navy plays in maritime security and the prevention of drug trafficking through the nation’s waterways.
“The sea routes are a major gateway that can be exploited by drug trafficking cartels. NDLEA recognises your strength and unique selling point on issues that relate to national maritime security, and we are delighted to collaborate with you in line with the cardinal policy thrust of the Chairman Chief Executive Officer Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa.”
The highlight of the visit was the exchange of gifts and the decoration of the flag officer as a War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) partner. This engagement, according to the NDLEA Commander, marks a significant step towards fostering a united front against drug abuse and trafficking by both institutions of government.
In his words, “It highlights our ongoing commitment to the health and safety of our institutions on the need for robust inter-agency collaboration. Joining forces with your esteemed and impregnable force will significantly disrupt the logistics of illicit drug trafficking and, simultaneously, address drug abuse challenges within our communities,” the commander stated.
The visit included a sensitisation lecture aimed at raising awareness among naval personnel regarding the dangers of drug abuse, as well as strategies for effective collaboration between NDLEA and the Nigerian Navy in the fight against narcotics.
Participants expressed satisfaction with the lecture presented by Commander Mitchell on the topic, ‘The Dangers of Drug Abuse: Our Roles and Responsibilities.’
There was a questions and answers segment aimed at deepening the understanding of participants. As the NDLEA and the Nigerian Navy strengthen their partnership, both organisations remain hopeful that continual outreach efforts and education will contribute toward a decline in drug-related activities and foster safer environments for all Nigerians.
The advocacy visit concluded with a pledge from both sides to enhance cooperation in ongoing anti-drug operations and community outreach programs.
