The French government has commended the operational successes of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, especially in areas of illicit drug control and the high rate of prosecution and conviction of offenders.

The French ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, gave the commendation while handing over some operational equipment donated by the French government to the agency in Abuja.

The French ambassador to Nigeria noted that the agency had done well in the fight against illicit drugs and narcotics, according to an NDLEA statement on Friday.

He said this included the successful interception of over 57,792 arrests, 9.9 million kilogrammes of seizures and 10,572 convictions within four years.

Mr Fonbaustier added that Nigeria’s records of achievements in the fight against illicit drugs placed the country in a good position for great partnership and collaboration with France.

“You’re one of the best in the world in terms of fight against illicit drugs and narcotics because of your operational successes.

“This give NDLEA an edge in terms of arrests, seizures, high rate of convictions and as such we can learn some lessons from you while you learn from us as well,” Mr Fonbaustier said.

NDLEA chairman Buba Marwa said Nigeria and France had been good partners.

He said, “The equipment are very important operational tools that will go a long way to enhance our work.”

The NDLEA boss emphasised earlier requests for special training on investigation and cyber transactions.

He said this included support for the agency’s Alternative Development Project initiative to encourage cannabis growers to embrace alternative crops.

(NAN)