NDLEA, UK’s HOIO sign MoU to strengthen fight against drug trafficking

In a major step toward curbing transnational organized crime, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the United Kingdom’s Home Office International Operations (HOIO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in combating drug trafficking and related crimes.

The MoU, signed on Monday, May 26, 2025, at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, aims to bolster joint efforts in tracking and dismantling networks responsible for smuggling illicit drugs and prohibited commodities between Nigeria and the UK.

During the ceremony, Mr. Ian Cunliffe, HOIO’s Regional Manager for West Africa, commended the long-standing partnership with the NDLEA, highlighting the progress made in intelligence sharing and operational coordination.

“I’d like to start by thanking the chairman for his time today and for the gracious welcome. I know the chairman had a great relationship with my predecessor, Christopher Hawksfield and with HOIO which has been really, really productive and I am really keen to maintain and enhance that relationship going forward.

I think the signing of this MoU today is the beginning of the next phase of our relationship.”

While acknowledging the excellent relationship with HOIO and Cunliffe’s predecessor, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa said “I have absolutely no doubt that we will also have the same relationship with you. I appreciate the HOIO for all the tremendous work that you have been doing with us.”

According to the NDLEA boss, the MoU “is not just an agreement, it is indeed a reaffirmation of our mutual trust, cooperation, collaboration and unwavering dedication to safeguarding the lives and futures of our respective nations. Nigeria, through the NDLEA, continues to scale up its drug control measures according to the National Drug Control Master Plan.

“We have a road-map and this MoU adds to the strategy framework by establishing a clear, lawful and secure mechanism for sharing personal data, intelligence and operational insights in line with international conventions, national laws and global best practices.

Together I know we will close ranks against crime and deepen the bonds of mutual responsibility and respect.
“We are convinced that stronger intelligence sharing leads to stronger enforcement. This partnership will enhance our collective ability to interdict criminal suspects, disrupt trafficking networks, and trace illicit financial flows with greater precision and speed.”