In a statement issued by Femi Babafemi, NDLEA’s director of media and advocacy, Fonbaustier gave the commendation while handing over some operational equipment donated by the French government to Buba Marwa, NDLEA chairman, on Thursday.

Fonbaustier noted that the agency had done well in fighting against illicit drugs and narcotics with over 57, 792 arrests; 9.9 million kilograms of seizures and 10,572 convictions within a space of four years. 

He added that the country’s achievements in the fight against illicit drugs places it in a good position for great partnership and collaboration with France.

“You’re one of the best in the world in terms of fight against illicit drugs and narcotics because of your operational successes, which give NDLEA an edge in terms of arrests, seizures, high rate of convictions and as such we can learn some lessons from you while you learn from us as well,” the ambassador stated.

In his appreciation remarks, Marwa hailed Nigeria-French relationship. 

“Nigeria and France have been good partners especially following the recent state visit by President Bola Tinubu to France,” Marwa remarked.

He added that the equipment are very important operational tools that will go a long way to enhance the agency’s work.

Marwa also addressed the requests for special training on investigation and cyber transactions as well as support for the alternative development project initiative of the agency aimed at encouraging cannabis growers to embrace alternative crops.