Written by: Mohamed Abdellah
Nigeria and Ghana have strengthened bilateral cooperation in Combating drug trafficking Transnational organized crime, where countries pledged a more coordinated and robust response to this threat across West Africa.
Nigeria and Ghana unite against drug gangs
The chief executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Mohammed Bouba Marwa, made the announcement on Tuesday while hosting a delegation from the Ghana Anti-Narcotics Commission (NACOC) at the agency's headquarters in Abuja.
drug gangs
The Ghanaian delegation, headed by its Director General, Maxwell Oboba Mante, visited Nigeria on a study tour to examine the operational model of the National Drug Control Agency (NDLEA) and explore areas for enhanced cooperation.
drugs
Marwa stated that renewing this partnership sends a strong message to drug gangs operating in the region, warning that the two countries are united in their determination to dismantle illicit drug networks.
Drug control in Ghana
He noted that the visit underscores the historical ties between Nigeria and Ghana, adding that enhanced cooperation in intelligence operations, counter-terrorism strategies, and digital forensics would significantly reduce the operational space available to criminal gangs.
According to him, this cooperation goes beyond a routine study tour, describing it as a strategic coordination aimed at enhancing operational coordination, strengthening technical cooperation, and developing joint training initiatives.
A key event during the visit was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the National Drug Control Agency (NDLEA) and the National Drug Control Center (NACOC) to combat the illicit production of psychotropic substances, their precursors, and related money laundering activities. Marwa described the agreement as a crucial step toward establishing a unified and organized front against drug trafficking in the region.
In his speech, Mante praised Nigeria’s leading role in regional security, describing it as the “greatest partner” whose experience and institutional capabilities continue to guide cooperative efforts in West Africa.
He stressed that the changing nature of drug trafficking – characterized by sophisticated smuggling methods, increased use of sea routes, and the spread of synthetic drugs – requires stronger regional cooperation.
Mante also highlighted emerging concerns in Ghana, noting the shift from being primarily a transit point for illicit drugs to experiencing increased local consumption and distribution, a development he said has increased the urgent need for coordinated action.
He stressed the need for the newly signed memorandum of understanding to produce tangible results, including improved intelligence sharing, joint operations, and sustained institutional cooperation between the two agencies.
The head of the National Drug Control Operations Centre expressed his appreciation to the National Drug Control Agency for its hospitality and commitment to deepening bilateral relations, stressing Ghana’s readiness to strengthen the partnership to achieve a greater impact.
The event was attended by the Acting High Commissioner of Ghana to Nigeria, Dr. Gladys Mansah-Yawa Fede Akyia, along with high-level officials from both countries.
