By JKNewsMedia
MOUNTING THREATS from drug trafficking and financial crimes have drawn fresh private sector backing, as Polaris Bank reaffirmed its partnership with Nigeria’s anti-narcotics agency in a renewed push to combat illicit networks and support rehabilitation efforts.
The commitment came during a high-level courtesy visit by a 15-member management team of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to Polaris Bank’s headquarters in Lagos.
Representing NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, the Director of Assets and Financial Investigation led the delegation to honour the bank’s longstanding support.
During the engagement, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Kayode Lawal, described the collaboration as a moral responsibility, not just a corporate initiative.
“The essence of Polaris Bank is not just profitability but fulfilling a moral obligation to society,” he said, highlighting the shared values that anchor the bank’s alliance with NDLEA.
The bank’s backing has extended beyond donations, with continuous sponsorship of advocacy campaigns, media awareness initiatives, and the provision of tools and infrastructure to aid the agency’s enforcement operations.
In recognition of its contributions, NDLEA officials decorated Mr. Lawal and Polaris Bank’s Chief Compliance Officer, Charles Oso, commending their leadership and robust compliance systems in combating money laundering and drug-related offences.
NDLEA also acknowledged the pivotal role Polaris Bank has played in supporting national drug rehabilitation programmes and boosting the agency’s operational capabilities, especially under the current leadership of Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retired).
The visit reflected the effectiveness of public-private cooperation in strengthening Nigeria’s response to drug abuse and financial crimes.
Present at the event were the bank’s Executive Directors: Chris Ofikulu, Abimbola Ozomah, and Sharafadeen Muhammed, who joined the MD in welcoming the agency’s leadership.
