US Ambassador tasks NDLEA on best practice, assures continuous support

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Symington Stuart has tasked commanders of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on best global practices in counter-narcotics campaign and promised to partner with Nigeria in the dismantling of drug cartels through manpower training and development.
He said that he came to Jos, Plateau State to meet with the commanders as a priority considering the benefits of winning the war against drug organised criminal groups. The theme of the summit is Change Begins with Me: Repositioning NDLEA for Effective and Efficient Performance Towards A Drug-Free Nigeria.
While expressing confidence on Nigeria’s capability to successfully prosecute the drug war, the envoy assured of America’s continued collaboration in the fight against drugs.
“I am delighted that we have started and we must continue to work together and talk to stakeholders of our collective responsibilities. If you think of any problem to tackle, I trust you to come up with a way to do it better. Whatever efforts you are making in the drug war will not end with you because the benefits are for your children, generations unborn and the world at large” the Ambassador stated.
The Chairman/Chief Executive, of the NDLEA, Col. Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (retd) in his remarks described the visit as a demonstration of the fact that drug control is a top priority for both countries.
“I welcome you to our regional academy in Jos. This visit is coming at a time commanders are brainstorming on the best way to prosecute the war against narcotics. It is also a demonstration of the importance of drug control to both countries. Commanders must imbibe the new thinking and direction the Agency is going as an intelligence-driven body. We must continue to provide specialised training for operatives in order to maintain our lead ahead of drug barons” Abdallah stated.
The NDLEA boss thanked the ambassador for the visit which according to him is a confirmation of the fact that Nigeria is not alone.
In his words, “this visit is a re-assurance that America is firmly behind Nigeria in the campaign to eradicate illicit drugs from the country and the world at large. I thank you for the visit.