Nigeria Customs Service At Tin Can Intercepts Illicit Drugs Worth ₦5.3 Billion in Major Breakthrough

By Lod Onyeji

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has made a significant seizure of illicit drugs worth over ₦5.3 billion, concealed in two containers loaded with vehicles. The announcement was made during a press briefing at the Command's headquarters on October 24, 2025, by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka.

Key Findings:

- Seized Substances:

    - 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

    - 8 packages of Crystal Methamphetamine weighing 8 kilograms

- Street Value: The combined street value of the narcotics is estimated at ₦5.304 billion

- Containers' Origin: The containers originated from Montreal, Canada, and were intercepted on September 4, 2025, and October 24, 2025

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 transnational drug trafficking.

Commitment to Enforcement: Comptroller Onyeka emphasized the Command's 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."

NDLEA's Response: 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.