Germany Donates Modern Canine Facility to Boost NDLEA’s War on Drugs

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has received a major boost in its fight against narcotics with the commissioning of a modern canine facility in Ikeja, Lagos.

The project was built and donated by the German government.

Speaking at the inauguration on Friday, NDLEA Chairman/CEO Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) described the facility as a milestone that will significantly strengthen the agency’s interdiction efforts.

He noted that the new infrastructure provides a conducive environment for NDLEA’s Canine Unit to perform optimally and sustain recent gains in drug control.

“This newly commissioned facility will provide a dignified and motivating workspace for our Canine Unit. It is a clear demonstration of the commitment, goodwill, and tenacity of our partners in Germany,” Marwa said.

Marwa highlighted Germany’s long-standing support, recalling the 2021 seizure of 74.119 kilograms of captagon at the Apapa seaport, which was made possible with sniffer dogs.

He revealed that since their deployment, NDLEA canines have been instrumental in the seizure of over 17.9 metric tonnes of illicit drugs across airports, seaports, land borders, and courier centres.

The German Consul General in Lagos, Daniel Krull, said the NDLEA’s success under Marwa’s leadership benefits not only Nigeria but also Germany and the wider international community.

Florian Bulow, Deputy Head of Section IZ14 of the German Federal Criminal Police (BKA), added that the support for NDLEA is one of the BKA’s longest-running police capacity-building projects, stressing the partnership thrives on shared goals, values, and teamwork.

Construction of the canine facility began in August 2024 and was delivered on schedule. It adds to the technical, training, and logistical assistance Germany has consistently provided in support of Nigeria’s anti-narcotics fight.