France applauds Nigeria’s drug war efforts, donates equipment to NDLEA
The French government has praised Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its achievements in combating illicit drugs, particularly in arrests, prosecutions, and convictions.
French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, gave the commendation on Thursday while handing over operational equipment donated by France to NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Fonbaustier highlighted NDLEA’s impressive record, citing 57,792 arrests, 9.9 million kilograms of drug seizures, and 10,572 convictions within four years. He noted that Nigeria’s success in drug enforcement makes it a key partner for collaboration with France.
“You are among the best in the world in the fight against illicit drugs and narcotics. Your operational successes—marked by arrests, seizures, and high conviction rates—set NDLEA apart. We can learn from each other in this battle,” Fonbaustier stated.
Marwa expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasizing Nigeria’s strong partnership with France, especially following President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit. He described the equipment as vital tools that would enhance NDLEA’s operations.
He also reiterated NDLEA’s request for specialized training in investigations and cyber transactions, as well as support for its Alternative Development Project, which aims to encourage cannabis farmers to transition to alternative crops.
