Nigeria and the State of Qatar have taken a significant step forward in their joint efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking, following the official exchange of ratification instruments between both countries.
The symbolic ceremony took place on Tuesday, 7th October 2025, at the Embassy of Qatar in Abuja, with the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retired), and the Qatari Ambassador to Nigeria, Ali Bin Ghanem Al-Hajri, leading the exchange.
This latest development stems from the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier on 3rd March 2024 in Doha between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The agreement covers cooperation in combating the illicit trade in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and their precursors. 
Speaking at the event, Marwa applauded the growing partnership and reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to global drug control. He disclosed that the NDLEA had, in the past four years, intercepted over 1,000 kilograms of various illicit substances, including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and cannabis, which were en route to Qatar.
“The partnership between both nations is critical in confronting the global challenge of drug trafficking and abuse. We remain committed to working closely with our Qatari counterparts to safeguard our citizens and borders,” Marwa stated.
He also commended the Qatar Foundation for its peacebuilding and humanitarian initiatives around the world and appealed for its support in the area of drug rehabilitation. According to him, additional rehabilitation facilities are essential for the effective treatment and reintegration of individuals battling drug addiction.
In his response, Ambassador Ali Bin Ghanem Al-Hajri pledged to convey the request to the appropriate authorities at the Foundation. He noted that the relationship between both nations has continued to flourish, with increased exchanges and collaborations across various sectors.
By Fikunmi Sokoya
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