The Abia State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), CN Leonard Chinagorom Nnadim, has called for stronger collaboration between the agency and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Abia State Command.
Nnadim made the call on Tuesday when he paid a courtesy visit to the Controller of Corrections, Abia State Command, Blessing Ifeoma Nwanyanwu, who received him and members of his management team at the Command Headquarters in Umuahia.
The NDLEA commander emphasized that he sees correctional centres not only as where offenders are kept, but also as institutions where inmates are given opportunities for reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
He recalled the cordial relationship and support enjoyed by the agency from the previous leadership, noting that the present Controller has also demonstrated willingness to support the NDLEA.
He expressed confidence that the existing relationship would be strengthened under her leadership.
CN Nnadim further highlighted the importance of drug integrity testing among personnel, explaining that the initiative is designed not merely as a punitive measure but as a preventive mechanism for the early detection of substance use and timely intervention.
According to him, administering drug integrity tests among officers would help identify cases at an early stage, enable affected personnel to seek appropriate assistance and prevent substance-related challenges from affecting their professional responsibilities.
He assured the Correctional Service that the NDLEA remains willing to provide the necessary professional support, particularly in the areas of drug education, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation, where required.
The Commander stressed that effective drug control requires a collective approach involving law enforcement agencies and other relevant stakeholders, adding that stronger institutional cooperation would contribute significantly to safer correctional facilities and a safer society.
Responding, Nwanyanwu warmly welcomed the NDLEA State Commander and his delegation, while praying for God’s guidance, wisdom and strength for Nnadim as he pilots the affairs of the agency in Abia State.
The Controller acknowledged the longstanding relationship between the Nigerian Correctional Service and the NDLEA, stating that she has consistently supported the agency and would continue to do so.
She noted that drug abuse is a major nexus to several forms of crime, stressing that the two agencies must continue to work closely together to address the menace and effectively discharge their respective mandates.
C.C Nwanyanwu assured the NDLEA Commander of her readiness to support the agency whenever necessary, emphasizing that inter-agency cooperation remains essential to achieving meaningful results in the fight against illicit drugs and associated criminal activities.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both agencies expressing optimism and also sharing of plagues.
