- ₦5.3bn Drug Bust: Customs and NDLEA Foil Canada-Nigeria Trafficking Attempt
- Frank Onyeka described the seizures as proof of the command’s firm resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s borders
- The Customs chief also issued a stern warning to traffickers
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted two containers loaded with eight vehicles used to conceal illicit drugs valued at ₦5.3 billion, imported from Canada through the Tin Can Island Port in Lagos.
Eko Hot Blog reports that while addressing journalists over the weekend, the Customs Area Controller for Tin Can Island Port, Frank Onyeka, described the seizures as proof of the command’s firm resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s borders and ensure compliance with international trade laws.
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According to Onyeka, the first container, numbered HLXU8500072 with Bill of Lading Number HLCUTOR2506000834, originated from Montreal, Canada, and was intercepted on 4 September 2025 following coordinated intelligence efforts.
A 100 per cent physical examination, jointly conducted with other relevant agencies, revealed that the container held four vehicles concealing 156 packets of Colorado Indica (a potent strain of cannabis) weighing 78 kg, along with 1.2 kg of hashish oil.
The second container, numbered FANU 312876/9, was intercepted on 24 October 2025 after actionable intelligence flagged suspicious contents. It also contained four vehicles concealing 2,081 packages of Cannabis Indica weighing 1,093 kg and eight packages of crystal methamphetamine weighing 8 kg.
Onyeka said the total street value of the drugs seized from both operations was estimated at ₦5.3 billion.
He formally handed over the confiscated narcotics to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution, in line with inter-agency protocols.
“Let it be known that Tin Can Island Port Command, under my watch, remains resolute, vigilant, and uncompromising in enforcing the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Onyeka stated.
He praised the NDLEA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Navy, and other partners for their collaboration in combating transnational drug trafficking.
The Customs chief also issued a stern warning to traffickers, stressing that drug smuggling undermines the economy and threatens national security and public health.
He urged legitimate traders to make accurate declarations and comply with all trade regulations, reaffirming the command’s commitment to using intelligence, technology, and inter-agency cooperation to secure Nigeria’s maritime borders.
Receiving the seized items, Daniel Onyishi, Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Tin Can Strategic Command, commended the NCS for its vigilance and dedication.
Onyishi noted that the handover reflects the strong collaboration between both agencies and reaffirmed the NDLEA’s determination to investigate and destroy all seized substances in accordance with legal procedures.
“The NDLEA remains resolute in ensuring a drug-free Nigeria through strong partnerships and continuous intelligence-led operations,” he said.
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