The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS), has handed over 120 sacks of cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana with total value of N704,518,000,00 to the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The seized Cannabis which was handed over today March 4th, 2024, at the commands premises was a collaborative effort between the two agencies to tackle the scourge of drug smuggling in the country.
Briefing the newsmen, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Odaudu Adah Salefu emphasized the commitment of both organizations to combatting illegal drug trade while facilitating legitimate trade activities within Nigeria’s maritime borders.
He said the seizures were made in 3 different operations at Jegemo Island opposite Iworo Ajido Waterfront and Asipa Beach along Seme borders on the 29th of November, 2023, 24th December, 2023 and 19th January, 2024.
Salefu lamented the influence of drugs and different psychotropic substances on Nigerian youths, and assured that the command would not rest on its oars in bringing smuggling to barest minimum.
Under the leadership of CGC BA Adeniyi MFR, the Service has intensified efforts to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, as evidenced by the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Nigeria Customs Service and NDLEA in April 2023.
While handing over the seized items to the NDLEA, Comptroller Salefu, noted that the intercepted consignment contained a total of” 10,551 loaves of cannabis sativa, with an estimated value of 704,518,000.00 .”
He said this significant seizure underscores the dedication and vigilance of customs officers who work tirelessly to disrupt the operations of drug traffickers and protect the nation’s youth from the harmful effects of illicit drugs.
The successful operation was lauded as a testament to the “hard work, dedication, and bravery of the officers involved”, who demonstrated unwavering commitment to their duties with integrity and professionalism.
His words, “Today’s event is a product of hard work, dedication,and bravery of my officers ,who have worked with diligence and integrity to puncture the reign of smugglers of these hard drugs”
The collaborative efforts between the Nigeria Customs Service and NDLEA highlight the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating transnational organized crime and safeguarding public health and security.
As Nigeria continues to confront the challenges posed by drug trafficking and substance abuse, such collaborative initiatives serve as a beacon of hope in the ongoing battle against illicit drugs.
The handover of the intercepted cannabis sativa shipment signifies a decisive step towards dismantling drug syndicates and fostering a safer, drug-free society for all citizens.
Receiving the seized items, the NDLEA Commander of Narcotics, Paul Ahom said the Western Marine Command has distinguished itself among other commands in the area of suppressing smugglers
"This is not the first time that their effort has yielded the seizures of exhibits that is being handed over to our agency.
Continuing,"We highly appreciate your efforts, we commend and look forward to having more synergy in fighting Drug trafficking on our waterways.
He noted that hard drugs have ruined the lives of Nigerian youths, and this portend grave consequences for the nation
He assured that both agencies will remain steadfast in their mission to disrupt illegal drug trade networks and uphold the rule of law, with continued cooperation and concerted efforts, the fight against drug trafficking in Nigeria remains a top priority, underscoring the nation’s commitment to building a secure and prosperous future for its people.
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