Fresh Boost For NDLEA As German Experts Train Officers And Sniffer Dogs In Lagos

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified efforts to strengthen its fight against drug trafficking by retraining handlers and service dogs attached to its Canine Unit in Lagos.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the specialised training was designed to improve the ability of NDLEA personnel and their canine partners to detect and intercept narcotics, particularly in efforts targeting drug trafficking networks.

The exercise was conducted at the NDLEA Canine Unit Facility in Lagos in collaboration with experts from Germany’s Bundeskriminalamt (BKA), with Andreas Roscher and Jacqueline Shüler leading the training programme.

A total of 16 officers participated in the course, which focused on key areas including obedience training, scent imprinting, search patterns and handler safety. The programme also introduced the officers to international approaches to narcotics detection and canine operations.

NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), said the agency recognises the importance of expanding and strengthening its Canine Unit as part of efforts to improve drug detection and interception.

Marwa noted that the unit requires additional service dogs, more personnel and improved boarding facilities to enhance its operational capacity. He added that plans were already underway to address some of the identified needs.

The NDLEA chairman also disclosed that the agency was considering annual refresher training to ensure handlers and service dogs remain adequately prepared for evolving challenges in narcotics detection.

The latest training forms part of the agency’s broader efforts to strengthen its operational capabilities and improve its response to drug trafficking through specialised personnel, canine resources and international cooperation.