NDLEA and Australian Police Unite Against Drug Trafficking

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has formed a partnership with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) to disrupt cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking networks operating along the Nigeria–Australia drug route. This collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) announced by NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, on November 2, 2026.

The agreement focuses on intelligence sharing, coordinated operations, capacity building, and controlled delivery of drug shipments. NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) stated that Nigerian organized crime groups are increasingly linked to the Australia-Pacific drug route.

He noted that Nigeria is exploited as a transit hub by international drug networks. The agreement is effective immediately and aims to lead to joint drug seizures and arrests.

Recent operations included the seizure of 184.5 kilograms of cocaine and the dismantling of methamphetamine labs involving Mexican nationals. The AFP's Ms Sandra Booth emphasized the importance of this cooperation to prevent drugs from reaching Australia.