SEAPORT OPERATIONS: NDLEA Boosts Personnel Skills With Advanced Maritime Training In UK
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has enhanced its maritime operations by sending officers to the United Kingdom for advanced training.
A six-member team from the Directorate of Seaport Operations visited key British maritime and border enforcement agencies from October 19–25, 2025.
According to a statement, they gained hands-on experience in maritime intelligence, port security, and inter-agency coordination under the UK Home Office International Operations guidance.
Following this, 19 additional officers underwent specific Advanced Container Targeting training in Lagos from November 10–13, sponsored by the same UK body.
The UK visit included visits to ports like Tilbury and Felixstowe, demonstrations of vessel rummage operations, and introduction to cutting-edge underwater detection technology—the Advanced Sea Searcher System.Deputy Commander Narcotics Aminu Danjuma Jega highlighted that the training exposed the team to innovative intelligence tools and inter-agency models that will enhance collaboration with Nigerian maritime and security agencies.
NDLEA Chairman Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) praised the officers’ efforts, emphasizing the importance of continuous skills development and international partnerships in strengthening Nigeria’s border security and countering drug trafficking through maritime routes.
In his response, Marwa commended the officers for representing Nigeria well during the training tour. He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to continuous capacity building and adoption of cutting-edge technologies in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
“Maritime routes remain critical in global drug trafficking networks. Strengthening our officers’ technical capacity and intelligence integration with our international partners is essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders. The lessons from this UK engagement will be vital in enhancing NDLEA’s effectiveness in intercepting drug consignments at sea and ensuring safer maritime operations,” Marwa stated.
The NDLEA boss said the Agency would continue to deepen collaboration with the UK Home Office International Operations and other global law enforcement partners as part of ongoing efforts to combat transnational organized crime linked to illicit drugs.