NDLEA, UK-HOIO Sign MoU on Operational Partnership Against Illicit Drugs
…It’s an agreement to safeguard lives and futures of our nations, says Marwa
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Home Office International Operations (HOIO) of the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening the fight against transnational organized crime, particularly the trafficking of illicit drugs and other prohibited substances between Nigeria and the UK.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony held at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja on Monday, 26th May 2025, the Regional Manager (West Africa) of HOIO, Mr. Ian Cunliffe, expressed appreciation for the productive relationship between NDLEA and HOIO.
“I’d like to start by thanking the Chairman for his time today and for the gracious welcome. I know the Chairman had a great relationship with my predecessor, Christopher Hawksfield, and with HOIO as a whole, which has been really productive. I’m eager to maintain and build upon that relationship. I believe the signing of this MoU today marks the beginning of the next phase of our collaboration.”
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), acknowledged the strong partnership with HOIO and praised the contributions of Cunliffe’s predecessor.
“I have absolutely no doubt that we will enjoy the same strong relationship with you. I appreciate HOIO for all the tremendous work you have been doing with us.”
Marwa emphasized that the MoU goes beyond a formal agreement, describing it as:
“Not just an agreement, but a reaffirmation of our mutual trust, cooperation, collaboration, and shared dedication to safeguarding the lives and futures of our respective nations. Nigeria, through the NDLEA, continues to scale up its drug control measures in line with the National Drug Control Master Plan.”
He noted that the MoU provides a structured framework for enhanced cooperation:
“We have a roadmap, and this MoU adds to our strategic framework by establishing a clear, lawful, and secure mechanism for sharing personal data, intelligence, and operational insights—consistent with international conventions, national laws, and global best practices. Together, I believe we will close ranks against crime and deepen the bonds of mutual responsibility and respect.”
Marwa concluded by underscoring the operational value of the partnership:
“We are convinced that stronger intelligence sharing leads to stronger enforcement. This partnership will enhance our collective ability to apprehend criminal suspects, disrupt trafficking networks, and trace illicit financial flows with greater precision and speed.”
Femi Babafemi
Director, Media & Advocacy
NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja
Monday, 26th May 2025
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