NIMASA Pledges Robust Partnership Against Drug Trafficking as Marwa Advocates NDLEA Inclusion in Deep Blue Project 

L-R: Executive Director, Administration and Finance, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Chudi Offodile; Director General, NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola; Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd.), CON, OFR; Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, NIMASA, Jibril Abba and Executive Director Operations, NIMASA, Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi during a courtesy visit by the Chief Executive and Management of the NDLEA to the NIMASA Towers in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain from the menace of drug abuse and trafficking. This commitment was brought to the fore during a high-profile visit by the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), to NIMASA headquarters in Lagos.

Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA, lauded the NDLEA for its impactful strides in curbing drug-related crimes. He emphasized the need for an alliance to secure Nigeria’s maritime borders against the rising tide of illicit drug shipments. Reflecting on NIMASA’s readiness, Dr. Mobereola stated:

“We are resolute in our fight against drug trafficking in Nigeria’s maritime domain. Collaborating with Brig. Gen. Marwa and the NDLEA, whose leadership has redefined the fight against drug crimes, is essential to securing our ports and terminals. The Deep Blue Project provides a robust platform for enhanced maritime security, and we are committed to integrating NDLEA into its framework.”

In his response, Brig. Gen. Marwa highlighted the urgency of a collaborative approach, particularly in the face of evolving threats posed by drug cartels exploiting maritime channels. He stressed the importance of the NDLEA’s Marine Command and proposed its partnership with NIMASA under the Deep Blue Project.

“Recent interceptions at Lagos ports have shown the scale of this challenge. It’s imperative we act swiftly, leveraging NIMASA’s resources and expertise to strengthen surveillance and enforcement within Nigeria’s waters. This collaboration will not only secure our maritime space but also deter criminal networks globally,” Marwa remarked.

A significant aspect of the visit was the pledge by the NDLEA to provide sensitization programs for NIMASA staff and cadets under the National Seafarers Development Program (NSDP). Brig. Gen. Marwa emphasized the importance of equipping maritime personnel with knowledge of the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking.

Reflecting on the broader context, the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive initiative anchored in NIMASA, was highlighted as a vital tool in combating maritime insecurity. With contributions from the Navy, Air Force, Army, Police, and DSS, the project exemplifies inter-agency collaboration. Dr. Mobereola’s assurance to integrate NDLEA’s expertise into this architecture signifies a new era in maritime security.

As Nigeria continues its battle against the scourge of drug trafficking, the partnership between NIMASA and NDLEA promises to fortify the nation’s ports and waterways, making them impervious to criminal exploitation. This collaboration marks a critical step in achieving a drug-free maritime domain, showcasing the power of unified action in addressing national and global security challenges.