By: Adeosun Ewatomi
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Tin Can Island Command, and the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral M.G. Oamen, have pledged to collaborate in addressing the problem of illicit drug trafficking.
This assurance was given during an advocacy visit by NDLEA Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju to the naval chief, aimed at strengthening interdiction efforts at Tin Can Island Port, Lagos.
Oamen expressed the Navy's commitment to supporting the NDLEA's initiatives and emphasized the importance of collaboration among security agencies in tackling drug-related challenges. He acknowledged that drug trafficking and abuse are serious transnational crimes that can disrupt economic growth and development, and stated that the Nigerian Navy will provide the necessary support to combat drug criminals.
Ofoyeju highlighted the strategic role of the Navy in ensuring maritime security and preventing drug cartels from exploiting the nation's waterways. He recognized the Navy's strength and unique capabilities in national maritime security, and expressed delight in collaborating with the Navy to align with the policy thrust of the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa.
During the visit, Oamen was decorated as a War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) partner, a gesture Ofoyeju described as a significant step in fostering inter-agency collaboration against drug abuse and trafficking. Ofoyeyu stated that this collaboration would significantly disrupt the logistics of illicit drug trafficking and address drug abuse challenges within communities.
The visit also featured a sensitization lecture by Ofoyeju on the dangers of drug abuse and the roles and responsibilities of the participants. The lecture aimed to raise awareness among naval personnel and enhance collaboration between the NDLEA and the Nigerian Navy in combating narcotics.
0 Comments