May 05, (THEWILL) — Nigeria and Ghana have strengthened their security cooperation with a renewed commitment to confront drug trafficking networks operating across the West African sub-region, in what officials describe as a decisive step toward dismantling increasingly sophisticated narcotics cartels.
The collaboration was reinforced on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, in Abuja, when the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Mohamed Buba Marwa, received a delegation from Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission led by its Director General, Brig Gen Maxwell Obuba Mantey, on a benchmarking and study tour of Nigeria’s anti-narcotics operational systems.
Marwa described the engagement as a strategic alliance that sends a strong warning to drug cartels seeking to exploit regional vulnerabilities, stressing that Nigeria and Ghana now stand united in confronting a shared security threat. He said the partnership reflects a broader regional determination to deny criminal networks the operational space they have long exploited across porous borders.
According to him, the nature of drug trafficking has evolved into a highly organised transnational enterprise involving complex routes, financial networks, and increasingly sophisticated concealment methods. He noted that this reality demands deeper collaboration between countries, particularly in intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and advanced forensic capabilities.
Marwa emphasised that the visit provided an opportunity for both agencies to exchange expertise in intelligence-led enforcement, digital forensics, and interdiction strategies. He added that discussions also focused on emerging trafficking trends across West Africa, as well as the need for joint training and stronger technical cooperation to improve enforcement outcomes.
A major outcome of the engagement was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between NDLEA and NACOC, which Marwa described as a significant milestone in formalising their collaboration. The agreement covers the fight against illicit production of psychotropic substances, control of precursor chemicals, and measures targeting associated money laundering activities. He explained that the MoU establishes a structured framework for sustained operational cooperation between both agencies.
Brig Gen Mantey, in his remarks, commended Nigeria’s leadership role in regional drug control efforts, noting that Ghana views its relationship with Nigeria as both strategic and historic. He described the partnership as one rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a common commitment to peace and stability in West Africa.
He expressed concern over the growing complexity of the drug trade in the region, including increased maritime trafficking routes and the rising presence of synthetic drugs. He also highlighted a growing domestic dimension of drug consumption within Ghana, which he said underscores the urgency of coordinated regional action.
Mantey stressed that the effectiveness of the partnership would depend on implementation, particularly in areas such as intelligence sharing, joint operations, and structured capacity building. He noted that both countries must focus not only on agreements but on measurable outcomes that directly disrupt criminal networks.
He also commended the NDLEA for its hospitality and openness during the engagement, describing the discussions as productive and forward-looking.
The meeting was attended by the acting Ghanaian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Gladys Mansa Yawa Feddy Akyea, senior officials of the Ghana High Commission, members of the NACOC delegation, and senior management staff of the NDLEA.
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