By Helen Udoh,Outlook Media ABUJA.
The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has lauded the efforts of inter-agency synergy between the Nigeria Customs Service and other government agencies, particularly the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), which has resulted in the interception of Cocaine, Colorado, Arms and Ammunition worth N4.279 Billion at Tincan Island Port Command.
Addressing Newsmen at the Command on Thursday, 25 January 2024, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) noted the Officers seized 56.39kg of Cocaine valued at N2,368,380,000 and 955kg of Colorado Indica valued at N1,911,400,000, all with a street value of N4.279 Billion.
Other items seized are 5 pistols and, 445 rounds of live ammunition, and several empty pistol magazines.
He emphasized the importance of inter-agency synergy in the fight against illicit substances and national security.
“Just as criminals find strength in collaboration, government agencies must equally appreciate the advantages of working collectively to fulfill their statutory responsibilities. It is within this context that the ongoing collaborative efforts between the NCS and the Nigeria Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have consistently yielded positive results”. He stated.
“This collaborative synergy exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing the commitment of both agencies to safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting its citizens from the threats posed by illegal substances.” He stressed.
He reiterated the NCS’ resolve to prioritize strategic partnerships to enhance its capability to fulfill its core mandates.
He said, “In recognition of the threats and the collaborative nature of criminal activities, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has steadfastly prioritized strategic partnerships with stakeholders over the past seven months.”
“This deliberate focus aims to harness the specialized expertise of our partners in a manner that enhances our capability to fulfill our core mandates.” He added.
The Customs Boss later handed over the seized items to the Chairman of NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa, who was represented by the Agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.
Receiving the items, the NDLEA Boss commended the CGC for the synergy between the two agencies, saying the collaboration is a strong warning to drug cartels as they will continue to lose their investments in the criminal trade.
He said, “The handing over of seized illicit drugs in the custody of the Nigeria Customs Service is a development that speaks volumes about the hard work and diligence of security agencies tasked with securing the territory of our country.”
“The seizure is a testament that, just like the Airports, the Sea Ports are also secured.” He concluded.
