By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has made a groundbreaking seizure of illicit drugs valued at over ₦5.3 billion, cleverly concealed in two containers loaded with vehicles.
This significant achievement was announced by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters on October 24, 2025.
A closer look at the seized substances reveals a substantial haul: 156 packets of Colorado Indica (cannabis) weighing 78 kilograms, 1.2 kilograms of Hashish Oil, 2,081 packages of Cannabis Indica weighing 1,093 kilograms, and 8 packages of Crystal Methamphetamine weighing 8 kilograms. The combined street value of these narcotics is estimated at ₦5.304 billion, highlighting the enormity of the seizure.
The containers, which originated from Montreal, Canada, were intercepted on September 4, 2025, and October 24, 2025, demonstrating the Command’s unwavering commitment to curbing transnational drug trafficking. The successful interception of these containers is a testament to the NCS’s enhanced surveillance and intelligence-gathering capabilities.
In a demonstration of inter-agency collaboration, the confiscated drugs have been formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution. Comptroller Onyeka commended the NDLEA, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Navy, and other security partners for their cooperation in combating the menace of transnational drug trafficking.
Comptroller Onyeka emphasized the Command’s unwavering commitment to enforcing the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and international conventions, stating, “Let it be known that Tin Can Island Port Command, under my watch, remains resolute, vigilant, and uncompromising.” This statement underscores the NCS’s determination to prevent the smuggling of illicit substances into the country.
The NDLEA Tin Can Strategic Commander, Commander Daniel Onyishi, praised the Customs Service for its vigilance and dedication, reaffirming the Agency’s commitment to investigating the case and ensuring the illicit substances are disposed of in line with established legal procedures.
The seizure of these illicit drugs is a significant blow to transnational drug traffickers and a demonstration of the NCS’s resolve to safeguard the nation’s borders. The collaboration between the NCS and other security agencies has yielded a remarkable result, and this achievement serves as a deterrent to those involved in the illicit drug trade.
The Tin Can Island Port Command’s success in intercepting these illicit drugs highlights the importance of robust border security measures in preventing the smuggling of prohibited substances. The NCS’s commitment to enforcement and collaboration with other agencies has resulted in a significant achievement in the fight against transnational drug trafficking.
