Nigeria TV Info — Nigeria, Qatar Strengthen Partnership Against Drug Trafficking

Abuja, Nigeria — Nigeria and the State of Qatar have deepened their collaboration in the global fight against illicit drug trafficking following the symbolic exchange of instruments of ratification between both countries.

The exchange ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Qatar Embassy in Abuja, involving the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Qatari Ambassador to Nigeria, Ali Bin Ghanem Al-Hajri.

This development follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier on March 3, 2024, in Doha, between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to enhance cooperation in combating the illicit trade in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and their precursors.

Speaking at the ceremony, Marwa commended Qatar for its continuous partnership and commitment to addressing what he described as a “major threat to public health and global security.” He reaffirmed NDLEA’s determination to work closely with Qatar in curbing drug abuse and trafficking.

> “In the last four years, NDLEA has intercepted over 1,000 kilograms of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, cannabis, and other substances destined for Qatar,” Marwa disclosed.

He also praised Qatar for its peace-building initiatives and humanitarian work through the Qatar Foundation, appealing for support in the provision of rehabilitation facilities to aid victims of drug addiction in Nigeria.

Responding, Ambassador Al-Hajri applauded the ongoing cooperation between both nations, noting that it has significantly strengthened bilateral relations and increased travel between the two countries. He further promised to relay NDLEA’s request for rehabilitation support to the Qatar Foundation.

The partnership underscores the shared commitment of Nigeria and Qatar to global efforts aimed at combating the menace of illicit drugs and promoting safer communities.