FG approves NDLEA’s operations at seaports

The federal government has endorsed the operations of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the seaports.

This clarification was made by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Ms. Hadiza Bala Usman, at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos sequel to the implementation of the executive order issued by the acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, on the ease of doing business at the ports.
According to the NPA chief executive, “eight agencies have been mandated and approved to operate within the ports. Agencies that are operating in the port apart from the approved list should be aware that they need to vacate whatever location they are currently occupying.”

The approved agencies are the NPA, the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Police, Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), NDLEA and the Port Health Authority (PHA).
Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Col. Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (retd.), also affirmed that the Agency has the presidential mandate to work at the seaport.

In his words: “NDLEA has been cleared by the presidency to work at the seaports. This official position must be respected by all port agencies and stakeholders. Attempt to violate this directive shall be considered as a conspiracy to advance the nefarious activities of drug cartels to the detriment of our national security.”
Abdallah also called for synergy among government Agencies adding that inter agency collaboration and strict adherence to best practices are essential requirements for enhanced security and speedy clearance of cargoes thereby making the ports user friendly and economically viable.