Nigeria, India agree on stepping up joint efforts to curb drug trafficking

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria and India’s Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) have agreed to step up joint efforts in curbing the illegal trafficking of drugs between both nations.

A major focus of the partnership is on the rising smuggling of opioids especially tramadol and codeine based cough syrups from India into Nigeria.

This renewed commitment was part of the outcomes of a virtual meeting held on Wednesday, August 6 in Abuja, involving NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, and NCB Director-General, Anurag Garg.

In a statement released by the NDLEA, Marwa emphasized the growing threat that illicit drugs pose to both public health and national security in Nigeria and India.

He also stressed the importance of reinforcing the collaboration between the two agencies, in line with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2023.

“The main reason I called for this engagement is the illegal importation of tramadol and codeine syrup into Nigeria from India,” Marwa said.

“Since the MoU was signed, from January 2024 to June 2025, we’ve intercepted over one billion tramadol pills and 14.4 million bottles of codeine syrup, this highlights the urgent need for stronger cooperation with the NCB.”

Marwa also requested support from the Indian agency in the area of capacity building and training.

He acknowledged previous training sessions provided by India, covering drug investigations, cybercrime, financial tracking, and dark web operations, and expressed interest in further specialised programs for NDLEA officers.

In response, Anurag Garg agreed on the need to deepen cooperation, noting that the global drug trade knows no borders and must be tackled through international collaboration.

“Transnational syndicates are behind much of the drug trafficking into Nigeria,” Garg said.

“These groups ignore borders and national laws, so the only effective solution is joint action. This meeting is a valuable step forward.”

Garg also welcomed the request for training support, stating that NCB has a dedicated training centre and is willing to tailor programs to meet NDLEA’s specific needs.

He added.“We’re happy to offer knowledge on key areas like clandestine laboratories, precursor chemicals, darknet investigations, and more.”