NDLEA, India’s NCB Join Forces Against Illicit Tramadol Shipments to Nigeria
…As Marwa Engages Indian Counterpart on Intelligence Sharing, Training
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) of India have agreed to intensify efforts in combating the shipment of illicit drugs between the two countries—particularly the illegal flow of opioids such as tramadol and codeine-based syrup into Nigeria from the South Asian nation.
This agreement was reached during a virtual meeting held on Wednesday, 6th August 2025, between the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Director General of NCB, Mr. Anurag Garg, alongside senior officials of both anti-narcotics agencies.
In his remarks, Marwa highlighted the threat posed to public health and security by illicit drugs in both Nigeria and India, stressing the need to strengthen the partnership between the NDLEA and NCB under the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2023.
“The main reason I requested this engagement is the illicit importation of tramadol and codeine cough syrup into Nigeria from India. This was an issue I raised the day we signed the MoU. From January 2024 to June 2025, we have seized over one billion pills of opioids—mainly tramadol—and more than 14.4 million bottles of codeine syrup. This is why we need the support and collaboration of the Narcotics Control Bureau of India,” Marwa stated.
The NDLEA boss also appealed for India’s support in specialized training and capacity-building efforts.
“Another key point is seeking your assistance with capacity building and training. We’ve had beneficial training from India in the past on drug investigations, analyst training, financial investigations, cyber training, the dark web, and more. We would greatly appreciate continued support and knowledge sharing in these areas for our officers,” he added.
In his response, NCB’s Director General, Mr. Anurag Garg, emphasized the need to reinforce the partnership, noting that drug trafficking is a global issue that transcends borders. He assured Marwa of the NCB’s readiness to share intelligence, knowledge, and technical expertise with the NDLEA.
“We all know that transnational syndicates are behind these illicit shipments into Nigeria, and we’re ready to work with you. Unless we come together, we cannot overcome this threat. These syndicates have no respect for borders or national laws. The only effective solution is collaboration. This meeting presents a valuable opportunity to move that initiative forward.”
On the issue of training, Garg offered access to the NCB’s training facilities.
“We will be happy to offer you training. We have a training centre and can host curated programs tailored to your needs. Whether it’s clandestine labs, precursor chemicals, darknet monitoring, or investigating darknet vendors, we are eager to share our expertise.”
Femi Babafemi
Director, Media & Advocacy
NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja
Wednesday, 6th August 2025
