The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) have signed a new agreement aimed at strengthening efforts to combat drug trafficking across West Africa.

NDLEA Chairman Buba Marwa announced the development in Abuja, warning drug cartels that the partnership between Nigeria and Ghana would significantly tighten enforcement against illicit drug networks in the region.

He described the collaboration as a strategic move to address the growing threat of transnational crime, including drug trafficking and related financial crimes such as money laundering.

According to Marwa, the agreement will enhance intelligence sharing, improve joint operations, and support training in areas like digital forensics and modern interdiction techniques.

The Memorandum of Understanding signed by both agencies is expected to provide a structured framework for tackling the production, movement, and distribution of illegal substances, as well as dismantling the networks behind them.

Leading the Ghanaian delegation, Maxwell Mantey praised Nigeria’s leadership role in regional security, noting that stronger cooperation is essential as drug trafficking becomes more complex and sophisticated.

He also highlighted concerns that Ghana is increasingly shifting from a transit route to a country facing rising domestic drug use, making collaboration even more urgent.

Both countries expressed commitment to turning the agreement into practical outcomes, including coordinated enforcement actions and improved regional security.