The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has enhanced its maritime surveillance and interdiction capacity after officers from its Directorate of Seaport Operations completed a week-long strategic training visit to the United Kingdom.
Femi Babafemi, NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, confirmed in a statement on Friday that the six-member delegation, led by Deputy Commander Narcotics (DCN) Aminu Danjuma Jega, participated in the programme from October 19 to 25, 2025. The training was conducted under the guidance of Mr. Errol Flynn Macdonald of the UK Home Office International Operations (HOIO).
During the visit, the team toured key UK maritime and border enforcement facilities, gaining exposure to international best practices in maritime intelligence, port security, and inter-agency coordination.
The delegation engaged with officials from the UK Border Force, National Crime Agency (NCA), Home Office Intelligence, National Maritime Security Centre, and the Joint Maritime Security Centre in Portsmouth.
A highlight of the visit included presentations by the UK National Deep Rummaging Team, which showcased modern vessel inspection techniques designed to detect and prevent illicit drug trafficking. Officers also observed live demonstrations at Tilbury and Felixstowe Ports, where containers arriving from Nigeria underwent layered inspections and risk-based screening procedures.
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Additionally, the delegation was introduced to the Advanced Sea Searcher System, a cutting-edge underwater detection technology capable of locating concealed contraband beneath ships and port infrastructure. Babafemi noted that the system’s high-precision capability could be a game-changer for NDLEA’s operations along Nigeria’s coastal and port areas.
Following the training, Jega presented his team’s findings to NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), emphasizing that the international exposure had strengthened their understanding of intelligence-led maritime enforcement.
“The practical demonstrations, particularly in vessel rummage and underwater detection, will significantly improve NDLEA’s ability to intercept illicit drugs at sea,” he said.
Marwa commended the officers for their professionalism during the visit and reiterated the Agency’s commitment to continuous training and adoption of advanced technologies.
“Maritime routes are critical in global drug trafficking. Enhancing our technical capacity and intelligence-sharing with international partners is essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders. The lessons from this UK engagement will directly improve NDLEA’s effectiveness in securing our ports,” he stated.
The NDLEA chief confirmed that collaboration with the UK Home Office International Operations and other global law enforcement agencies will continue as part of ongoing efforts to combat transnational organized crime linked to illicit drugs.
