The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Federal Operations Unit, zone ‘C’, has executed a significant handover of seized prohibited and highly controlled consignments of illicit drugs and substances to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Owerri, Imo State. This operation, which took place on April 23, 2026, involved consignments valued at an estimated N2.63 billion, underscoring the serious efforts by authorities to combat drug trafficking.

The items transferred to the NDLEA for further necessary action included a substantial quantity of various illegal substances. Specifically, the handover comprised 1,126,060 tablets of Tramadol, 21,245 bottles of Codeine syrups, and a large volume of Cannabis Sativa, totaling 666 sacks and an additional 19 wraps. Other seized narcotics included three wraps of Scottish loud, 11 wraps of Ghanaian loud, five wraps of Colos, and various other controlled drugs.

Comptroller Bishir Balogun, head of the NCS Federal Operations Unit, zone ‘C’, affirmed that these interceptions were the direct result of strategic credible intelligence deployment, diligent surveillance, and the high level of professionalism demonstrated by Customs officers. He reiterated the unwavering commitment of these officers to their statutory responsibilities in safeguarding the nation.

Balogun emphasized the profound threat posed by the misuse and illegal distribution of substances like Tramadol, Codeine-based syrups, and Cannabis Sativa. He highlighted their severe impact on public health, especially among the youth, and their detrimental contributions to addiction, high-profile criminal activities, and overall social instability, which gravely endanger national security. He further stated, “As a service, we recognise the grave implications and remain fully committed to combating this menace at all levels. Today’s event underscores the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service in safeguarding our nation from the dangers posed by illicit drugs and highly controlled substances.”

The Comptroller attributed the unit’s success in anti-smuggling operations to robust teamwork and effective collaboration with the NDLEA and other sister agencies, all working towards a common national objective. He stressed that the NDLEA, as the lead agency in drug control and enforcement, plays a pivotal role in ensuring these seized items are prevented from re-entering unregulated circulation. “This handover, therefore, is not just a procedural exercise; it is a demonstration of strong inter-agency synergy and a shared resolve to rid our society of harmful, highly controlled drugs and illicit substances. It also sends a clear message to those involved in illicit drug trafficking that their activities will not go unchecked,” Balogun added.

Concluding his remarks, Comptroller Balogun commended the officers of his Unit for their vigilance, dedication, and integrity. He also expressed appreciation for the continuous cooperation from the NDLEA and other critical stakeholders in securing the nation. Members of the public were urged to remain vigilant and to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing timely and useful information to further these crucial efforts.