In a major operational success reflecting Nigeria’s growing enforcement capability against transnational crimes, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has intercepted two containers loaded with imported vehicles used to conceal ₦5.3 billion worth of illicit drugs, marking one of the most significant anti-smuggling breakthroughs in recent years.
The announcement was made during a press briefing held at the Command headquarters on Friday, October 24, 2025, where the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, highlighted the seizures as evidence of the Service’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders, promoting legitimate trade, and protecting the nation from the scourge of drug trafficking.
Details of the Seizure
According to Comptroller Onyeka, the first container, HLXU8500072, with Bill of Lading Number HLCUTOR2506000834, originated from Montreal, Canada, and was intercepted on September 4, 2025, after detailed profiling and intelligence-led monitoring. A comprehensive 100% physical examination, jointly conducted with other security agencies, revealed four imported vehicles hiding 156 packets of Colorado Indica (a strain of cannabis) weighing 78 kilograms and 1.2 kilograms of Hashish Oil.
The second container, FANU312876/9, was intercepted on October 24, 2025, following actionable intelligence provided by the Command’s enforcement team. On examination, the container was found to conceal 2,081 packets of Cannabis Indica weighing 1,093 kilograms and eight (8) packages of Crystal Methamphetamine (“Meth”) weighing 8 kilograms—all neatly stashed inside four imported vehicles.
The total street value of the seized narcotics from both operations is estimated at ₦5.304 billion.
Handover to NDLEA and Inter-Agency Collaboration
In accordance with inter-agency cooperation protocols, the illicit substances have been formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation, prosecution, and destruction.
“Let it be known that the Tin Can Island Port Command, under my watch, remains resolute, vigilant, and uncompromising in enforcing the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all international conventions to which our country is a signatory,” Comptroller Onyeka declared.
He further stressed that such criminal activities threaten national security and public health, while undermining the economy. The Area Controller commended the NDLEA, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Navy, and other partner agencies for their unflinching collaboration and intelligence-sharing efforts that made the successful operation possible.
Comptroller Onyeka also issued a stern warning to individuals and syndicates involved in illegal drug trafficking to desist, reiterating that the Service would continue to strengthen surveillance systems and intelligence networks to detect and dismantle smuggling operations.
“We are determined to make Tin Can Island Port a no-go area for criminal elements. The era of using vehicles and legitimate trade as cover for illicit activity is over,” he emphasized.
NDLEA Commends Customs’ Vigilance
Receiving the seized drugs on behalf of the NDLEA, the Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Tin Can Strategic Command, Commander Daniel Onyishi, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its professionalism and operational synergy in intercepting the consignments.
“The handover demonstrates the strength of our inter-agency collaboration. The NDLEA remains resolute in ensuring these substances are thoroughly investigated and disposed of in accordance with the law. Together, we will continue to protect the nation from the dangers of drug trafficking,” Onyishi affirmed.
He further pledged the NDLEA’s continued cooperation with the Customs Service and other security agencies in the shared goal of achieving a drug-free Nigeria.
Appreciation to Leadership and Media
Comptroller Onyeka expressed profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for his strategic leadership and continuous support, which have strengthened enforcement capabilities across Customs formations.
He also commended the gallant officers and men of the Tin Can Island Port Command for their professionalism and diligence in executing the operation, while recognizing the media’s role in promoting compliance and sensitizing the public on the dangers of smuggling.
“Our success today is a reflection of teamwork, intelligence, and dedication. The officers and men of this Command will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and patriotism in line with the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs,” he added.
Official Statement by Public Relations Officer
In an official statement released by CSC O. E. Ivara, Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Customs Service, Tin Can Island Port Command, the Command reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to trade facilitation, border security, and the protection of national economic interests.
“The seizure of these narcotics underscores the Command’s zero-tolerance stance toward illicit trade and its dedication to upholding Nigeria’s integrity in global commerce,” CSC Ivara stated.
“We urge all stakeholders in the maritime and logistics sectors to continue supporting Customs’ enforcement initiatives by promoting transparency, accurate declarations, and lawful trade practices,” he added.
CSC Ivara further noted that the Tin Can Island Port Command will continue to deepen collaboration with sister security agencies and international partners to strengthen maritime domain awareness and secure the nation’s seaports from criminal infiltration.
The ₦5.3 billion drug seizure once again places the Tin Can Island Port Command at the forefront of Nigeria’s fight against smuggling and narcotics trafficking. With continued inter-agency synergy, intelligence-driven operations, and strong leadership, the Command reiterates its resolve to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s borders and support the government’s broader national security agenda.
Nigeria Customs Service, Tin Can Island Port Command, intercepts ₦5.3 billion worth of illicit drugs concealed in imported vehicles. Comptroller Frank Onyeka reaffirms zero tolerance for smuggling as NDLEA takes custody of the seizures. CSC O. E. Ivara underscores Customs’ commitment to maritime security and lawful trade.
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