In a landmark move to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against two of its most pressing social problems, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) have established a joint task force to tackle drug abuse and human trafficking across the country.
The decision to create the special team was finalized after a high-level meeting between the leadership of both agencies in Abuja, signaling a new era of collaboration aimed at addressing the intersection between drug trafficking, substance abuse, and human trafficking.
Chairman of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), and the Director-General of NAPTIP, Professor Fatima Waziri-Azi, expressed strong commitment towards integrating their operational efforts, sharing intelligence, and conducting joint operations to dismantle criminal networks exploiting vulnerable Nigerians.
Speaking at the press briefing following the meeting, Marwa noted that the growing link between drug abuse and human trafficking necessitates a more coordinated approach. “We have observed that victims of trafficking are often introduced to substance abuse as a means of control by traffickers. Likewise, the proceeds from human trafficking sometimes fund drug operations. It is therefore logical that our agencies work hand-in-hand to break these vicious cycles,” he said.
The newly formed task force will focus on intelligence gathering, joint investigations, coordinated raids, public enlightenment campaigns, and rehabilitation programs for victims. Both agencies also plan to strengthen their collaboration with international partners, particularly in monitoring cross-border activities that facilitate both drug and human trafficking.
Waziri-Azi emphasized that this collaboration would not only enhance operational efficiency but also provide comprehensive care for survivors. “Human trafficking is a crime that thrives on vulnerability, and drug addiction often deepens that vulnerability. With this partnership, we are building a system that can provide holistic solutions — from prevention to prosecution and rehabilitation,” she stated.
The establishment of the joint task force comes at a critical time for Nigeria, as the country faces a surge in drug-related crimes and human trafficking incidents. According to recent statistics from both agencies, drug abuse among Nigerian youths is on the rise, with a significant portion of trafficking victims being under the age of 25.
Experts have long warned about the dangerous synergy between drug trafficking and human trafficking. Traffickers often use drugs to subdue victims, making it harder for them to resist exploitation or seek help. On the other hand, traffickers sometimes compel their victims into drug trafficking as a means of sustaining criminal enterprises.
The joint task force, officials said, would operate nationwide but with a particular focus on known trafficking corridors such as Lagos, Edo, Delta, Ogun, Kano, and Borno States. Training programs for officers from both agencies are already being scheduled to ensure a seamless blending of tactics and expertise.
Already, public expectations are high. Several human rights organizations and civil society groups have praised the move, calling it a “much-needed strategic alliance” that could finally turn the tide against two major social menaces plaguing the country.
Reacting to the announcement, Executive Director of the Women’s Consortium of Nigeria, Mrs. Olabisi Ajayi, said: “We are delighted to see this level of synergy between NDLEA and NAPTIP. Both agencies have done commendable work individually, but this partnership promises to multiply their impact significantly. The criminals have become more sophisticated; our response must be equally sophisticated.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Women Affairs have also pledged their support for the new initiative, promising to facilitate legal reforms and victim support services that will complement the work of the joint task force.
The collaboration between NDLEA and NAPTIP is expected to also inspire similar partnerships among other government bodies, as calls for a more unified front against organized crime grow louder.
In his closing remarks at the unveiling event, Marwa stated, “We are not just forming a task force; we are sending a clear message to traffickers, drug dealers, and their sponsors: Nigeria is coming after you, and this time, we are more united and determined than ever.”
Waziri-Azi echoed the sentiment, adding, “Our victims deserve justice. Our children deserve a country free from the chains of drugs and trafficking. Together, NDLEA and NAPTIP are committed to delivering on that promise.”
With operational details expected to roll out in the coming weeks, Nigerians are hopeful that this new partnership will mark a turning point in the country’s ongoing battle against drug abuse and human trafficking.
