Two Federal Government agencies, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS), have renewed commitment to combat drug trafficking and smuggling at the ports.

The renewed commitment is contained in a statement by the Commander of NDLEA, Tin Can Port, Mr Mitchell Ofoyeju in Lagos on Saturday.

The agencies expressed their readiness to join forces to combat drug trafficking and smuggling at the ports when Ofoyeju received in audience, NSC’s Comptroller, Tincan Island Port, Mr Dera Nnadi.

Ofoyeju underscored the significance of collaboration toward actualising critical national goals and priorities.

He noted that the collaboration would bring about strategies that would enhance port security aimed at combating drug trafficking, boosting revenue generation, and facilitating trade.

“This partnership is essential not only to secure our port but also to boost legitimate trade in the overall interest of our country,” he said.

Ofoyeju noted that he was determined to make Tincan Island Port invincible to drug trafficking cartels.

“I have the mandate of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig.-Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (RTD) to implement strict measures that will accentuate zero tolerance for drug trafficking at the port”.

Ofoyeju emphasised the critical need for synergy and collaboration in tandem with the 2023 Memorandum of Understanding signed by the NDLEA and the NSC.

“Our cardinal objective is to create a united front against drug trafficking through the sharing of intelligence to enhance our operational capabilities and respond swiftly to emerging threats,” he said.

According to the NDLEA Tincan Commander, seaports play a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce, and as key players, we have a responsibility to promote efficiency and integrity in seaport operations.

He said it was pertinent to prioritise safety and security through effective drug control measures and other key responsibilities aimed at facilitating trade and commerce under the presidential initiative of the ease of doing business.

He listed some of key issues discussed at the meeting to include the need for joint training programmes and the use of technology aimed at equipping personnel from both agencies with the skills necessary to effectively detect and interdict illicit drug consignments.

“This initiative is expected to strengthen our operational effectiveness and improve inter-agency cooperation.

‘It is equally aimed at preventing the trafficking of narcotics, particularly lethal synthetic opioids like fentanyl and others,” Ofoyeju said.

He said both organisations agreed on the urgent need to educate port workers and the general public about the dangers of drug abuse.

Responding, Nnadi said: “An informed workforce is our best defence against drug-related crimes. We must take proactive steps to raise awareness.

“We are committed to ensuring that trade is conducted in a safe and efficient manner,” he said.

During the advocacy engagement that took place at the weekend, the officials also underscored the importance of collaboration between the two agencies to adequately tackle pressing issues related to smuggling and illicit drug trafficking.

Highlight of the meeting was the decoration of Nnadi by Ofoyeju as a War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Ambassador.(NAN)