 has inaugurated two new state-of-the-art forensic laboratories in Abuja and Enugu){kind=link}
The newly constructed laboratories will enable us to enhance our forensic analysis capabilities, increase our capacity to process cases efficiently, and strengthen our fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has inaugurated two new state-of-the-art forensic laboratories in Abuja and Enugu, marking a major milestone in the agency’s efforts to enhance drug law enforcement capabilities across the country.
This development comes after more than 25 years of relying solely on a single forensic laboratory in Lagos, which itself has now been fully upgraded into a modern, high-capacity facility.
Speaking on the significance of the expansion, NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), emphasized that the new labs are strategically located and equipped with advanced technology to meet global standards in forensic analysis and safety. According to him, the establishment of these laboratories will significantly boost the agency’s capacity to conduct timely, accurate analyses and efficiently prosecute drug-related cases.
“The newly constructed laboratories will enable us to enhance our forensic analysis capabilities, increase our capacity to process cases efficiently, and strengthen our fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking,” Marwa stated.
He lauded the efforts of the Directorate of Forensic and Chemical Monitoring, commending the personnel for their dedication in achieving this historic breakthrough.
Marwa noted that the achievement reflects his administration’s commitment to equipping NDLEA facilities with cutting-edge instruments and enhancing the skills of forensic experts, especially in response to the challenges posed by New Psychoactive Substances (NPS).
Describing the expansion as a landmark in the agency’s history, Marwa said: “The newly constructed drug laboratories and renovated facilities mark a significant milestone, and we are delighted about this achievement.”
NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi added that the newly built labs in Abuja and Enugu are ready to commence operations. He also revealed that the existing Lagos lab has undergone extensive renovations, transforming it into a modern forensic hub.
Babafemi attributed the successful execution of the project to funding support from the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), with implementation led by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
In a further boost to its forensic capabilities, the NDLEA—working in partnership with the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN)—has trained and certified 20 forensic analysts. These professionals are now qualified to independently sign off on drug analysis reports, ensuring higher efficiency and credibility in the prosecution process.
Additionally, the agency has implemented rigorous quality control systems, following successful participation in three rounds of the UNODC’s International Collaborative Exercise (ICE), a core component of the International Quality Assurance Programme (IQAP). This programme ensures the accuracy, reliability, and international credibility of forensic results generated by the agency.