The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has intercepted another major shipment of illicit drugs at the nation’s seaport, barely two weeks after a similar operation led to a high-profile seizure.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Customs authorities disclosed that the latest interception followed credible intelligence jointly gathered by the NCS and NDLEA, leading to the examination of a 40-foot container marked HAMU 247034/8.
According to the Service, the container, which originated from Canada, was found to contain 8,347 packages of Cannabis Indica weighing 4,173.5 kilograms, with an estimated street value of N16.694 billion.
Addressing officers, representatives of sister security agencies, and journalists at the event, the Customs Area Controller noted that the repeated interceptions underscore two critical realities — the persistence of criminal syndicates attempting to exploit Nigerian ports for drug trafficking, and the growing effectiveness of inter-agency intelligence collaboration.
“Interestingly, it feels like we were here just yesterday,” the Controller remarked, recalling a similar briefing held on April 30, 2026, over another major drug seizure involving collaboration between the NCS and NDLEA.
He described the latest discovery as “not just another seizure,” but a deliberate attempt by criminal networks to undermine national security, destroy lives, and profit from the vulnerability of Nigerian youths.
The Controller commended the vigilance, professionalism, and dedication of officers involved in the operation, stressing that the Command remains resolute in intensifying surveillance, strengthening intelligence gathering, and sustaining strategic partnerships with relevant security agencies.
He further warned that the Service would not stop at seizures alone, assuring that investigations are ongoing to identify, trace, arrest, and prosecute all individuals connected to the illegal shipment, including insiders aiding criminal operations within the port system.
“No matter how long it takes, anyone compromising national security for personal gain will be tracked down and dealt with according to the law,” he stated.
The Customs boss also expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Buba Marwa, for strengthening inter-agency cooperation in the fight against illicit trafficking and other criminal activities.
He noted that the successful operation reflects the commitment of both agencies toward improved intelligence sharing and national security coordination.
The seized consignment was subsequently handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and necessary legal action.
Customs also appreciated members of the media for their continued support in sensitising the public and promoting the fight against smuggling and drug trafficking across the country.
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