The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a consignment of Cannabis Sativa valued at N18.96 billion, concealed in two used vehicles imported from Canada at the Tin Can Island Port Command.

Displaying the drugs to journalists inside the port yesterday, the Customs Area Controller of the command, Frank Onyeka, said the container originated from Canada and was initially declared to contain used vehicles. He added that, acting on intelligence, operatives subjected the consignment to a 100 per cent physical examination.

He said the examination revealed 185 jumbo bags of cannabis concealed within a used 2010 Toyota Camry and a 2023 Chevrolet.

Onyeka added that further inspection uncovered a total of 9,450 packages of cannabis weighing 4,729 kilogrammes, with an estimated street value of N18.96 billion.

He disclosed that the seizure followed intelligence-driven operations carried out in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other security agencies.

The Customs boss described the seizure as a reflection of the vigilance and professionalism of officers, as well as the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration.

He said the development comes days after a strategic cooperation agreement between the NCS and NDLEA aimed at strengthening intelligence sharing and joint operations, signed on April 27, 2026. The agreement also provides for the establishment of a standing inter-agency committee headquartered in Abuja.

Onyeka formally handed over the seized drugs to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution in line with its statutory mandate.

He also commended the NDLEA for its professionalism and dedication, and acknowledged port users, operators and the media for their continued support.

Reaffirming the command’s resolve, Onyeka warned smugglers and criminal networks that there would be no safe haven for illegal activities.

He added that the command would continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies and robust enforcement measures to protect Nigeria’s economy, public health and national security.

Receiving the drugs, the Commander of Narcotics at the Tin Can Strategic Command of NDLEA, Omotoso Solomon, said the seizure underscores ongoing efforts by security agencies to strengthen surveillance and enforcement at the nation’s seaports amid concerns over the use of maritime channels for illicit drug trafficking.

Solomon attributed the interception of the drugs to strong inter-agency cooperation and decisive leadership within the Customs command.

He said the operation was intelligence-driven, involving careful sourcing and processing of information before engaging Customs authorities for joint action.

Solomon issued a warning to drug traffickers, declaring Tin Can Island Port a “no-go area” for illicit activities.

“In the interest of national security and your own future, stay away from Tin Can Island Port. Our operations here are firm, coordinated, and uncompromising,” he warned.
Photo and caption: Seized consignments