The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Home Office International Operations (HOIO) of the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that would enhance the fight against transnational organised crime.
Speaking at the MoU signing at the NDLEA headquarters on Monday in Abuja, Regional Manager (West Africa) of HOIO, Mr Ian Cunliffe, expressed appreciation for the productive relationship between NDLEA and HOIO.
Cunliffe said that the MoU would particularly address the trafficking of illicit drugs and other prohibited commodities between Nigeria and the UK.
According to him, I’d like to start by thanking the chairman for his time today and for the gracious welcome.
“I know the chairman had a great relationship with my predecessor, Christopher Hawksfield and with HOIO, which has been really, really productive.
“I am really keen to maintain and enhance that relationship going forward. I think the signing of this MoU today is the beginning of the next phase of our relationship,” Cunliffe said.
Responding, the NDLEA Chairman, retired, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa acknowledged the excellent relationship with HOIO and Cunliffe’s predecessor.
Marwa commended HOIO for the tremendous work and expressed absolute confidence to having same relationship with the successor.
According to the NDLEA boss, the MoU is not just an agreement:”It is indeed a reaffirmation of our mutual trust, cooperation, collaboration and unwavering dedication to safeguarding the lives and futures of our respective nations.
“Nigeria, through the NDLEA, continues to scale up its drug control measures according to the National Drug Control Master Plan.
“We have a road-map and this MoU adds to the strategy framework by establishing a clear, lawful and secure mechanism for sharing personal data, intelligence and operational insights.
“This is also in line with international conventions, national laws and global best practices. Together, I know we will close ranks against crime and deepen the bonds of mutual responsibility and respect.
“We are convinced that stronger intelligence sharing leads to stronger enforcement.
“This partnership will enhance our collective ability to interdict criminal suspects, disrupt trafficking networks, and trace illicit financial flows with greater precision and speed.”(NAN)
