The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Port Command, has intercepted a massive consignment of illicit drugs valued at ₦18.9 billion in a coordinated operation with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking.
Speaking to journalists, the Customs Area Controller, Frank Onyeka, said the seizure was the result of actionable intelligence and enhanced collaboration between the NCS and NDLEA.
He explained that the operation led to a 100 percent physical examination of a container flagged through intelligence. The container, identified as HAMU429966/1 and shipped from Canada, had been declared as carrying used vehicles.
However, upon detailed inspection, officers uncovered 185 jumbo bags of Cannabis Indica concealed alongside a used 2010 Toyota Camry and a 2023 Chevrolet Colorado.
According to Onyeka, the seized drugs comprised 9,458 packages with a total weight of 4,729 kilograms and an estimated street value of ₦18.916 billion.
He described the interception as a reflection of the vigilance and professionalism of Customs officers and the effectiveness of sustained inter-agency cooperation.
The Customs boss confirmed that the illicit consignment has been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution in line with its statutory mandate.
The seizure comes on the heels of a recent agreement between the NCS and NDLEA to deepen collaboration in combating drug trafficking and organised crime. The pact, signed on April 27, 2026, in Abuja, provides for intelligence sharing, joint operations, and structured engagements between both agencies.
As part of the agreement, a standing inter-agency committee based at the NDLEA headquarters will coordinate joint enforcement strategies.
Onyeka commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for strengthening operational capacity and promoting inter-agency synergy. He also acknowledged the support of the NDLEA and other stakeholders.
Reiterating the Command’s resolve, he warned smugglers and criminal elements that enforcement agencies remain determined to detect, intercept, and prosecute all forms of illegal trade.
He added that the NCS will continue to deploy intelligence-driven measures to safeguard the nation’s economy, protect public health, and ensure national security.
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