By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has recorded one of its largest drug seizures in recent times, intercepting cannabis indica valued at ₦18.916 billion.
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Speaking with journalists at the port, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, said the seizure was made possible through credible intelligence and sustained inter-agency collaboration with operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Onyeka explained that the operation followed a 100 per cent physical examination of a container marked No. HAMU429966/1, which had earlier been flagged based on intelligence reports. The container, which originated from Canada, was initially declared to contain used vehicles.
“Upon thorough examination, it was discovered that the container concealed cannabis indica weighing a total of 4,729 kilograms, packaged in 9,458 parcels, with an estimated street value of ₦18,916,000,000,” he said.
He described the interception as a clear demonstration of the vigilance, professionalism, and dedication of Customs officers, as well as the effectiveness of collaboration with sister agencies.
The seized drugs were subsequently handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution in line with its statutory mandate.
Onyeka noted that the achievement comes shortly after a landmark agreement between the NCS and NDLEA aimed at strengthening inter-agency cooperation in tackling drug trafficking and organised crime.
The agreement, signed on April 27, 2026, at the NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja, was between the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
He added that the framework provides for enhanced intelligence sharing, regular engagements, and coordinated operational guidelines to ensure seamless collaboration between both agencies. It also establishes a standing inter-agency committee to be headquartered at the NDLEA office in Abuja.
The Customs Area Controller expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs for his leadership and support in strengthening operational capacity and collaboration.
He also commended the NDLEA for its professionalism and cooperation, while acknowledging the role of stakeholders, including port operators, security agencies, and the media, in supporting enforcement efforts and public awareness.
Reaffirming the command’s commitment, Onyeka said the Tin Can Island Port Command would continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations and strengthen partnerships to combat smuggling and illicit trade.
He issued a stern warning to smugglers and criminal elements, stressing that there would be no safe haven for those engaged in illegal activities, as the Service remains fully prepared to detect, intercept, and prosecute offenders.
The Customs boss reiterated the agency’s resolve to protect Nigeria’s economy, safeguard public health, and ensure national security.
