The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says effective collaboration with other security agencies is the key to tackling illicit drug trafficking, substance abuse and other crimes.

NDLEA commander in Anambra, Charles Onubogu, said this on Thursday in Awka, during a familiarisation visit by the commanding officer, 14 Field Engineer Regiment, Onitsha, Joseph Enyia, to the NDLEA office.

“Effective collaboration among security agencies remains indispensable in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, substance abuse, and other crimes,” he said.

Mr Onubogu reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining existing cordial relationships with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the state to fight drug trafficking and other crimes.

He welcomed the commanding officer and his entourage, congratulating him on his recent appointment.

The NDLEA chief assured Mr Enyia of the agency’s readiness to sustain intelligence sharing, joint operations, and other collaborative initiatives geared towards ensuring a safer and drug-free Anambra.

Mr Enyia emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration among security agencies in addressing emerging security challenges.

He said the visit was meant to strengthen existing partnerships and provide an avenue to deliberate on issues of common interest, towards enhancing peace, security, and public safety across the state.

The commanding officer, who assumed command of the 14 Field Engineer Regiment on July 13, was accompanied on the visit by some senior officers of the regiment.

The visit was aimed at fostering a cordial working relationship between the Nigerian Army and the NDLEA.

It was also meant to familiarise the new commanding officer with key security stakeholders in the state.

(NAN)