NAAPE and NDLEA work together to curb illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse

The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has committed to supporting the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in preventing illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse in the Nigerian aviation sector.

The association made the pledge during a courtesy visit by its President, Captain Bunmi Gindeh, to the President and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), in Abuja.

The meeting focused on the role aviation professionals can play in strengthening the fight against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse.

During the visit Gindeh underlined that the fight against drug trafficking and the protection of aviation safety are now inextricably linked.

He noted that licensed pilots and maintenance engineers operate at critical points in the aviation system, including before departure, during flight and in aircraft hangars, where public trust must remain absolute.

“Fighting illicit drugs and protecting aviation safety are now one and the same battle, meeting in our airports, in our cockpits, in our hangars and in the lives of the young Nigerians we both serve.

“Airports remain a major target for human trafficking, and when a professional is compromised, it’s not just a crime; it’s a direct threat to flight safety and national security,” he said.

Gindeh explained that aviation professionals were often the first line of defense in identifying unusual events, including sudden changes in colleagues’ behavior, unexplained wealth and suspicious cargo-handling activity.

He stressed the need for a proactive union to help close vulnerabilities that drug cartels could exploit.

“Our members work every day where aviation safety is protected.

“We have a responsibility to promote integrity, fitness for duty and a culture where legitimate concerns can be raised before they become serious threats,” he said.

The NAAPE President also commended Marwa for the NDLEA’s efforts in combating drug trafficking and substance abuse, as well as the renewed intensity of the agency’s campaign against illicit drugs.

He noted that the agency’s efforts also focus on dismantling trafficking networks, tracking cartel finances and reducing demand for drugs among young Nigerians.

In her response, Marwa praised NAAPE for its proactive leadership and willingness to align with the anti-drug campaign.

He described aviation workers as crucial guardians whose vigilance could significantly impede the movement of illicit drugs across international borders.

The NDLEA president said collaboration with professional bodies such as NAAPE could strengthen prevention efforts by extending the campaign beyond enforcement to workplaces, training institutions and professional communities.

“Every responsible sector must contribute to prevention. We want to deepen partnerships that help us detect threats early, protect young Nigerians from drug abuse and ensure that criminal networks do not exploit legitimate systems and professionals for their activities,” he said.