The Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has sounded a note of warning on perpetrators of illicit drugs smuggling into the country, saying that the service remains vigilant and dedicated to protecting the Nigerian society.
Adeniyi gave the warning in Lagos on Friday while addressing newsmen on the N4.17 illicit psychotropic substances intercepted by the Tin Can Island Customs Command.
He stressed that NCS is more than ever committed to ensuring that the benefits of a stable and prosperous economy are enjoyed by all Nigerians.
The Customs boss recalled that in recent months, the Service has reported a number of successfully executed interceptions and seizures of illicit drugs, arms and ammunition, illegal wildlife and petroleum products at various locations, representing a concerted effort to prevent illegal entry and exit in and out of the country through diverse routes and means of conveyances. He noted that these interceptions have brought to light a concerning trend wherein criminal networks engage in collaborative attempts to subvert the competency of the agencies tasked with mitigating the trafficking of such illicit substances.
He remarked that the misuse and abuse of drugs, particularly Cannabis Indica and codeine, pose severe dangers to the society. “Codeine, a restricted drug in Nigeria, has been widely abused, leading to devastating effects on our youth. This substance not only impairs the health and well-being of individuals but also contributes to the rise in criminal activities. Cannabis Indica, similarly, has become a significant concern, with its abuse leading to mental health issues, addiction, and social problems. Unchecked activities involving restricted items serve multiple purposes for criminal elements. ” “These drugs, for instance, are used as stimulants by criminals, further fuelling societal unrest and instability. Additionally, the proceeds from the illicit drug trade are often used to finance disruptions by non-state actors, posing a significant threat to our national security and economic stability,” the CGC stated
He declared that the Nigerian government under the President Bola Ahmed led Administration is determined to stabilize the economy and create an environment where all citizens can thrive and prosper, adding that as part of these efforts, the NCS plays a crucial role not only in revenue collection from legitimate trade but also in the protection of our society.
“Our mandate includes ensuring that harmful and illegal substances do not find their way into our communities.
” 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.
“Recall that in the past, I have reiterated that the collaborative synergy between NCS and its partner agencies exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing the commitment of our agencies to safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting its citizens from the threats posed by smuggling,” he said
He maintained that it is against this background that NCS is pleased to provide an update on yet another seizure of two containers of unwholesome importations comprising of 01x40ft container of regulated unregistered pharmaceutical products and another 01x40ft container of illicit psychotropic substances seized by Tin Can Command of the Service. Adeniyi gave the details of the seized containers as follows:
*3 plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica,
*46 bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica all weighing 1,072 kilogrammes (kg) seized from 01x40ft Container No. GAOU 669921/5 imported from Canada.
He gave the approximate street value of the illicit substances as N3, 216,000,000.00 (Three Billion Two Hundred Sixteen Million Naira ).
The other seizures are 877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine- 200 bottles of 100ml per carton and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets – 600 packs per carton imported from India.
The CGC said the approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964, 339,348.00 (Nine Hundred and Sixty Four Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty Eight Naira), all totalling N4,170,339,348.00.
According to Adeniyi, this operation highlights a troubling trend and the evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in the country.
He, however, said it is evident that the NCS has resolved to remain vigilant and showcase its ability to intercept and disrupt the activities of those who seek to harm the nation.
“The NCS will continue to work closely with relevant national and international agencies to conduct operations that lead to the interception of illegal goods and the disruption of criminal networks. We urge all patriotic Nigerians to continue their legitimate business activities, assured that the NCS is actively working with stakeholders to ease the challenges faced by businesses and the general public,” he stated.
He revealed that investigations are ongoing, assuring that perpetuators will be made to serve the full wrath of the law.