NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war

By: Michael Mike

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration of the United States (DEA) have stressed the need to strengthen current collaboration between the two agencies on the fight against the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

This was the highpoint of discussion during a meeting between the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Buba Marwa (Rtd) and the Country Attache of US-DEA, Ms. Daphne Morrison on Friday at the NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja

Marwa, while appreciating the cordial
working relationship and partnership between NDLEA and DEA, Ms. Morrison who was recently posted to Nigeria said “I wanted to make this one of my priorities to come meet with you so we can continue to collaborate and work together.

“And thank you so much for your support over the years, and we’re ready to keep things going. I know you’ve been working well with the last Country Attaché, so I’m ready to get back in and collaborate and do some really great things with you.”

She said efforts are ongoing to organise more trainings for officers and men of the Special Operations Units of the afency Amwhile looking forward to a number of joint operations with NDLEA in already identified areas of interests.

In his response, the NDLEA boss acknowledged the excellent relationships with Morrison’s predecessors. He said: “They’ve been very, very supportive, and I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that it will be the same, if not better, with you.” He acknowledged the recent evolution of NDLEA in the size of its workforce, expansion of operational and administrative structures as well as remarkable successes recorded in its drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.

While acknowledging the support received from DEA over the years especially in areas of equipment, training, and joint operations, Marwa expressed hope that more of such support will continue. “I think we would welcome much more support but because this being your first visit to introduce yourself, I’m not going to bring out a long list of demands or requests, but just to acknowledge that we appreciate all the support we’ve been receiving.”

NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war

APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership

By: Michael Mike

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has affirmed its unwavering commitment to the one-China principle, recognising Taiwan as an integral part of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

Speaking in an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, the APC National Vice-Chairman (North-East), Comrade Mustapha Salihu, said the party is in full alignment with the federal government’s diplomatic stance.

He said: “Nigeria is unequivocally committed to the One-China Principle. Consequently, the policies and principles of the APC will mirror those of our federal government in diplomatic matters.

“China is a significant partner for our nation; they regard us as equals rather than a lesser nation. This perspective fosters a relationship of mutual progress. Therefore, it is wise for the government to support the one-China principle.”

Salihu reiterated the APC’s firm support for the government’s diplomatic policies, stating, “As a party, we stand resolutely behind the one-China principle.”

He praised the positive outcomes of Nigeria-China diplomatic relations, particularly in trade, investment, and infrastructural development.

He said: “Our partnership with China has yielded substantial results. We have witnessed the construction of extensive roads, bridges, and railways by Chinese companies, with counterpart funding from the Chinese government.

“In addition, projects such as the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) natural gas pipeline and various free trade zones in Nigeria have been funded, in whole or in part, by Chinese institutions. Chinese enterprises are eager to establish factories and businesses in Nigeria, and many are already contributing to our economy,” he noted.

He attributed the influx of foreign investment in Nigeria to the APC administration’s business-friendly policies, including amendments to the Companies and Allied Matters Act, which have streamlined processes for investors.

He expressed the party’s readiness to strengthen ties with the Communist Party of China (CPC) through collaboration in cultural exchange, trade, education, and human capital development.

He said: “We are dedicated to fostering mutual growth and reinforcing our historic partnership.”

APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership

VP Shettima Departs For Taraba Investment Summit

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, for Jalingo, Taraba State, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Taraba International Investment Summit 2025.

The summit, themed “Unlocking Taraba’s Investment Potentials – Advancing Agriculture, Energy, Mining and Industrialisation (AEMI) for Sustainable Growth and Development,” is taking place today in the state capital. VP Shettima is also scheduled to commission several key development projects during his visit to the state.

The Vice President is accompanied by Senator David Jimkuta, representing Taraba South Senatorial District; Senator Emmanuel Bwacha, former Deputy Senate Minority Leader; Hon. David Abel Fuoh, member representing Sardauna/Kurmi/Gashaka Federal Constituency; Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku Dampar, member representing Ibi/Wukari Federal Constituency; Hon. Mohammed Abdullahi; H.E. Uba Maigari, Minister of State for Regional Development and Aisha Rimi, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).

The Taraba International Investment Summit is expected to showcase the state’s vast agricultural, energy, and mineral resources to potential investors from across Nigeria and abroad, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision of expanding economic opportunities beyond major urban centres to include all parts of the country.

VP Shettima Departs For Taraba Investment Summit