The Abia State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), CN Leonard Chinagorom Nnadim, on Tuesday, paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Abia State Command, where he was received by the State Comptroller, CIS J. N. Owe.
The visit aimed to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, particularly in the areas of intelligence sharing, border control, prevention of illicit drug trafficking and the monitoring of foreigners who may pose security threats to the state.
Speaking during the visit, CN Nnadim appreciated the Nigeria Immigration Service for its support and cooperation with the NDLEA, stressing the importance of closer collaboration in checkmating the movement of illicit drugs and drug-related activities across the state.
The State Commander called for increased scrutiny of foreigners entering the country, particularly individuals whose activities or intentions may be linked to the establishment of clandestine laboratories or other forms of illicit drug production.
He emphasized that, given the trans-border nature of the Immigration Service’s responsibilities, timely and effective intelligence sharing between both agencies would significantly enhance their ability to detect and disrupt drug trafficking networks.
CN Nnadim also highlighted the importance of drug integrity test kits, noting that the initiative could help promote drug-free workplaces and improve the integrity of personnel within security agencies. He further suggested that travelers undergoing visa-related processes could be sensitized on the importance of maintaining a drug-free lifestyle and the consequences of illicit drug use.
Responding, the State Comptroller of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Abia State Command, CIS J. N. Owe, expressed satisfaction with the existing synergy among sister security agencies in Abia State, describing the relationship as strong and beneficial to the overall security of the state.
The Comptroller assured the NDLEA of the continued support and cooperation of the Immigration Service, emphasizing that security agencies constitute one family and must work together to protect the lives and property of citizens.
CIS Owe disclosed that the Immigration Service would intensify surveillance and monitoring of illegal immigrants and other foreign nationals whose activities may constitute a threat to national security. The Comptroller also drew attention to emerging security concerns, including human trafficking and organ harvesting, noting the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies to address such crimes.
The Comptroller further stressed the importance of properly handing over cases to the relevant agencies for appropriate investigation and prosecution, as well as maintaining effective communication among sister agencies.
CIS Owe welcomed the proposal on the use of drug integrity test kits and requested that the NDLEA conduct a sensitization programme for Immigration personnel on drug abuse, its consequences and preventive measures.
The Comptroller also highlighted the importance of the Immigration Service’s responsibilities in the issuance of international passports and ECOWAS Travel Certificates, noting that these documents facilitate legitimate movement while supporting effective migration management and security.
The engagement featured an interactive question-and-answer session, during which officers from both agencies exchanged views and sought clarification on areas of mutual concern.
The visit culminated in the exchange of plaque awards between the both agencies.
