Illicit Drugs: NDLEA Strengthens Airport Operations
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its efforts to combat drug trafficking at Nigeria’s major airports by training its commanders and officers in advanced operational techniques.
The training sessions, focusing on the Advance Passenger Information System (API) and Passenger Targeting/Intelligence Gathering, were conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The aim is to enhance the NDLEA’s ability to intercept high-risk passengers, cargo, and mail involved in illicit drug trafficking.
Training Highlights
The workshops were held in two locations: Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Abuja, Nigeria. They aimed to improve the operational efficiency of NDLEA’s Airport Commands by equipping officers with skills to identify and target individuals or shipments involved in cross-border criminal activities.
Participants included:
- ACGN Usman Ali Wadar, Commander of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command.
- CN Mohammed Ajiya, Commander of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) Command.
- Thirteen other officers drawn from the MMIA and NAIA Commands.
The training was part of the AIRCOP (Airport Communication Project), funded by multiple international donors, including the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, and Japan.
Facilitators and Endorsements
The sessions were facilitated by Ms. Fabienne Russel from UNODC and Anderson Leme Siqueira from the Brazilian Customs Administration. NDLEA Chairman, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended their contributions and encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained in their daily operations at Nigeria’s international airports.
Goals and Outcomes
The trainings aimed to:
- Enhance Interception Skills: Equip officers with tools to detect high-risk passengers and cargo.
- Strengthen International Collaboration: Foster better coordination among countries of origin, transit, and destination to disrupt drug trafficking networks.
- Promote Knowledge Sharing: Empower trained officers to share their expertise with colleagues.
Impact on Airport Operations
Participants are expected to implement the skills and techniques learned to improve the NDLEA’s operational effectiveness, reducing the flow of illicit drugs through Nigeria’s major airports and disrupting criminal networks.
The NDLEA’s commitment to strengthening its airport operations underscores its resolve to combat drug trafficking and ensure safer air travel in Nigeria.
