By Deborah Nnamdi
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has hailed the donation of a newly constructed canine facility by the German government, describing it as a major boost to Nigeria’s fight against illicit drugs.
The state-of-the-art complex, located in Lagos, was commissioned on Friday by NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.).
In a statement issued in Abuja by the Agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, Marwa said the facility would enhance NDLEA’s operational capacity, particularly in narcotics detection at airports, seaports, and border points.
“The quality of the infrastructure at the new NDLEA dog facility is commendable. It speaks volumes of the commitment, goodwill, and tenacity of our partners,” Marwa said, adding that the Canine Unit has been central to several high-profile operations, including the seizure of 74.119kg of captagon at Apapa Port in 2021.
He disclosed that NDLEA’s sniffer dogs have aided in the recovery of more than 17.9 metric tonnes of illicit substances since their deployment, though poor infrastructure had previously limited the Unit’s capacity. The new complex, built by the German Federal Criminal Police through its Liaison Office, commenced in August 2024 and was delivered on schedule.
Marwa expressed gratitude to German Consul General Daniel Krull and officials of the German Federal Criminal Police for their support, stressing that the facility would provide a dignified environment to further motivate NDLEA personnel.
In his remarks, Krull said NDLEA’s achievements extend beyond Nigeria.
“The amazing work of your Agency under your leadership is important for Nigeria, for the region, and for Germany. I encourage all members of NDLEA to keep up the good spirit,” he stated.
Similarly, Florian Bulow, Deputy Head of Section IZ14 at BKA Berlin, described the collaboration as one of the longest-running projects in police capacity building.
“Like in a marriage, cooperation needs trust. We share the same goals and values in the fight against drug smuggling and abuse, and our long-standing teamwork has yielded these achievements,” Bulow said.
The NDLEA has intensified its anti-drug campaign under Marwa’s leadership, recording record seizures and high-profile arrests. With the new canine complex, the Agency says it is better positioned to sustain its war against narcotics trafficking.
