The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Nigeria have partnered to combat drug trafficking, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Drug Enforcement Authority (NDEA) of the UAE and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of Nigeria. The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, hosted by Abu Dhabi from 26th September to 1st October 2026. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Chairman of the NDEA, witnessed the signing of the MoU.
The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in combating the production, manufacture, and illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and their precursors. It establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation, including the exchange of information and data on measures taken to counter the production, manufacture, and trafficking of drugs, as well as smuggling activities. The agreement was signed by Rashid Hamad Al Shamsi, Director-General of the NDEA, and Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA.
The partnership between the UAE and Nigeria seeks to establish a new phase of joint security cooperation in confronting the transnational threat of drug trafficking. The MoU provides for the exchange of expertise and the implementation of training and capacity-building programs through reciprocal visits, meetings, and workshops. It also covers mutual assistance in controlled delivery operations and monitoring the movement of drugs.
The signing of the MoU reflects the strong relations between the UAE and Nigeria and supports joint efforts based on international conventions and instruments on combating narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The agreement forms part of the UAE's approach to building effective bilateral partnerships with international security agencies to combat illicit drug trafficking and drug abuse.
The UAE's efforts to combat drug trafficking are part of its commitment to ensuring the security and safety of societies. The country has been actively engaging with international partners to address the threat of drug trafficking, which poses a significant challenge to global security. The MoU with Nigeria is a significant step in this direction.
The 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, hosted by Abu Dhabi, provides a platform for countries to come together and discuss global security challenges. The Congress aims to promote international cooperation in combating organized crime, including illicit drug trafficking. The UAE's hosting of the Congress underscores its commitment to addressing global security challenges.
The partnership between the UAE and Nigeria is expected to yield positive results in the fight against drug trafficking. The two countries will work together to implement the provisions of the MoU, which is expected to enhance their capabilities in combating the production, manufacture, and trafficking of illicit drugs.
Key points
- The UAE and Nigeria have signed an MoU to enhance cooperation in combating illicit drug trafficking and drug abuse.
- The partnership aims to establish a new phase of joint security cooperation between the two countries in confronting the transnational threat of drug trafficking.
- The MoU provides for the exchange of expertise and the implementation of training and capacity-building programs to combat drug trafficking.
