By Deborah Nnamdi
After operating with only one forensic laboratory in Lagos for more than 25 years, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially launched two new state-of-the-art forensic labs in Abuja and Enugu. Additionally, the existing lab in Lagos has undergone a significant upgrade, marking a major leap forward in the agency’s forensic capacity.
This advancement comes amid a growing crackdown on drug trafficking and abuse, following a notable increase in drug seizures in recent months.
“These strategically located labs in Abuja and Enugu are equipped with modern technology, meeting top global standards for safety and operational efficiency,” the agency stated.
NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), hailed the development as a landmark achievement that will strengthen the agency’s forensic capabilities.
“With these new labs, we can now improve our case processing, enhance forensic analysis, and intensify efforts to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking,” Marwa said.
He added that the Lagos facility has been completely renovated and transformed into a modern forensic center equipped with advanced tools and technologies.
The expansion and upgrades were supported by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and carried out by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
In partnership with the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN), the NDLEA also trained and certified 20 forensic analysts, enabling them to independently validate drug analysis reports and improve analytical accuracy.
“This also builds on our successful participation in the UNODC’s International Collaborative Exercise (ICE), where we met international quality control standards,” Marwa added.
He commended the Directorate of Forensic and Chemical Monitoring for its dedication to achieving this milestone, emphasizing that it reflects the agency’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging drug threats, including New Psychoactive Substances (NPS).
However, the U.S. INL has donated sophisticated forensic equipment to support the enhanced operations of the Lagos lab.
At a handover event in NDLEA’s Ikoyi Headquarters Annex, Ms. Candace Spradley, INL Director in Nigeria, presented the equipment and praised the strong partnership between INL and NDLEA.
“This new technology will greatly improve the agency’s ability to detect and analyze suspicious substances,” she stated.
The ceremony was attended by senior NDLEA officials.
