By Helen Udo.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has intercepted Cannabis Indica valued at ₦26.57 billion concealed inside a 40-foot container carrying imported used vehicles at Apapa Port.
Acting on credible intelligence, Customs officers subjected the container to a thorough examination on July 10, 2026, uncovering 162 bags containing 8,287 parcels of Cannabis Indica, weighing 4,143.5 kilograms. The drugs were hidden inside a 2015 Nissan Micra and in spaces beneath and between three imported vehicles, while the two Toyota Corolla cars contained no illicit substances.
The disclosure was contained in a statement signed by Isah Sulaiman, Chief Superintendent of Customs and Customs Public Relations Officer, Apapa Area Command, for the Customs Area Controller, on 14 July 2026 revealed that Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, described the seizure as a testament to the Command’s vigilance and commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking, stressing that the operation aligns with the zero-tolerance policy of the Comptroller General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, against prohibited imports.
He reaffirmed the Command’s determination to facilitate legitimate trade while cracking down on smuggling, assuring compliant traders of continued support and trade facilitation measures. Comptroller Oshoba also ordered the seizure of the container in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 as investigations continue.
