The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Port Command, has recorded a major breakthrough with the interception of illicit drugs valued at ₦18.9 billion in a joint operation with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
This was disclosed during a press briefing by the Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka today 30 April, 2026 at the command headquarters, Apapa, Lagos
Following credible intelligence and sustained inter-agency cooperation, officers of the Command, working jointly with personnel of the NDLEA, conducted a 100% physical examination on a Container with Container No. HAMU429966/1, which has been red-flagged from intelligence gathered.
The container which originated from Canada was initially declared to contain only used vehicles. However, upon thorough examination it was discovered to contain One hundred and eighty-five (185) jumbo bags of Cannabis Indica concealed with one used 2010 Toyota Camry and one used 2023 Chevrolet Colorado
Further examination revealed that the seized Cannabis Indica comprised 9,458 packages, with a total weight of 4,729 kilograms, and an estimated street value of ₦18,916,000,000.00 (Eighteen Billion, Nine Hundred and Sixteen Million Naira).
This significant seizure demonstrates the vigilance, professionalism, and dedication of our officers, and affirms the strength of our collaboration with sister agencies.
"Today, we formally hand over these illicit drugs to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and prosecution in line with their statutory mandate".
"This achievement is particularly significant as it comes shortly after the historic agreement between the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the Nigeria Customs Service to strengthen inter-agency synergy against drug trafficking and organized crime.
"Continuing, This framework, which is already yielding tangible results, was signed on April 27, 2026, at the NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR PhD", Onyeka stated.
As part of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of the agreement, both agencies are to follow on strengthening inter-agency collaboration through regular engagements, structured intelligence sharing, and develop coordinated operational guidelines to ensure seamless collaboration.
Additionally, the agreement establishes that the headquarter of the standing inter Agency committee is to be domiciled at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Headquarters, Abuja.
"Let me use this opportunity to express our profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR psc(+) PhD, for his visionary leadership and unwavering support in strengthening operational capacity and inter-agency collaboration".
"We also extend our gratitude to the leadership and personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for their professionalism, cooperation, and dedication to safeguarding our nation from the menace of illicit drugs. To our critical stakeholders, including port operators, security agencies, and members of the media, we thank you for your continuous support and partnership. Your role in information dissemination and public awareness is invaluable.
Comptroller Onyeka maintained that Tincan Island Port Command remains resolute in its commitment to intensifying synergy with all relevant agencies to secure our borders and ports.
"We will continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies and robust enforcement measures to combat smuggling and illicit trade".
The command boss sounded a clear warning to all smugglers and criminal elements, the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with its partners, is fully prepared and determined to detect, intercept, and prosecute all forms of illegal activities.
The controller reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intensifying enforcement operations and warned smugglers that there would be no safe haven for illegal activities, while reiterating the NCS resolve to safeguard the nation’s economy and public health.
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