The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) says Nigeria is no longer a safe haven for international drug cartels.
The agency credits major enforcement gains by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over the past five years.
This shift signals stronger action against drug trafficking and organised crime in the country.
UNODC Country Representative Cheikh Ousmane Toure made the statement in Abuja during the handover of new audiovisual interview rooms to the NDLEA.
The facilities feature modern interrogation technology. UNODC provided them with funding support from the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (US-INL).
According to Toure, global drug trafficking still drives corruption, violence, and social instability. It also targets vulnerable communities across regions.
Nigeria’s Role in Global Drug Routes
Toure explained that Nigeria’s location once made it a key hub for drug networks linking Latin America, Asia, and Africa.
However, that trend is changing.
He said stronger enforcement has made the country less attractive to international cartels.
NDLEA Records Major Breakthroughs
Toure praised NDLEA’s progress under its chairman, Mohamed Buba Marwa.
Since 2021, the agency has increased arrests, seizures, and convictions.
In addition, NDLEA has expanded prevention and treatment programmes.
As a result, global criminal groups now face higher risks operating in Nigeria.
New Technology to Strengthen Investigations
The new interview rooms aim to improve how officers handle suspects and gather evidence.
Toure stressed that law enforcement must respect human rights and due process.
He also urged NDLEA to expand the facilities across the country to improve consistency and transparency.
NDLEA Embraces Digital Transformation
Speaking at the event, Marwa thanked UNODC and the US government for their support.
He said the new facilities mark a shift toward technology-driven policing.
According to him, the agency is modernising its operations to meet global standards.
Boosting Public Trust and Accountability
Marwa added that the equipment will improve investigation quality and efficiency.
He noted that better tools will help officers deliver justice more effectively.
More importantly, he said the upgrade will strengthen public trust in NDLEA operations.
The NDLEA boss assured stakeholders that the agency will use the facilities to achieve measurable results.
He stressed that the investment supports both personnel development and the wider justice system.
Ultimately, authorities say Nigeria’s tougher stance sends a clear message, drug cartels will no longer find safe ground in the country.
