The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to tackle drug abuse and trafficking through Nigeria’s maritime borders.
During a courtesy visit by NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), to NIMASA headquarters in Lagos, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, applauded the NDLEA for its remarkable achievements in the fight against drug-related crimes across the country.
“We commend the NDLEA team led by Brig. Gen. Marwa for its efforts in combating the drug menace. NIMASA is ready to collaborate with the NDLEA to ensure that Nigeria’s Ports and Terminals are not exploited for illegal drug activities,” Mobereola said.
He assured that the agency would integrate NDLEA personnel into the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive maritime security initiative aimed at protecting Nigeria’s waterways from criminal activities, including drug trafficking.
In his remarks, Brig. Gen. Marwa stressed the need for a stronger partnership to tackle drug smuggling through Nigerian waters.
“The global maritime space has become a major route for the illegal movement of drugs. Recent seizures of illicit drugs at Lagos ports highlight the urgency of securing our waters. We are keen to strengthen our collaboration with NIMASA through the Deep Blue Project to enhance maritime security,” Marwa stated.
Marwa further proposed close collaboration between NDLEA’s Marine Command and NIMASA, while pledging support to sensitize NIMASA staff and cadets under the National Seafarers Development Program (NSDP) on the dangers of drug abuse.
Responding, Dr. Mobereola assured that NIMASA would continue to support NDLEA’s anti-drug initiatives.
“NIMASA remains committed to ensuring that drug traffickers do not find our maritime space a safe haven,” he said.
The Deep Blue Project, a joint initiative of the Federal Ministries of Transportation and Defence, involves various security agencies, including the Nigerian Navy, Air Force, Army, Police, and the Department of State Services (DSS). It aims to provide comprehensive security coverage across Nigeria’s maritime domain.
