By Tunde Ojudun
Within just two weeks, the Tin Can Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the leadership of Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has recorded another major breakthrough against drug trafficking. Officers intercepted 8,347 packages of Cannabis Indica, weighing 4,173.5 kilograms, with an estimated street value of ₦16.694 billion.
This follows a similar seizure on April 30, 2026, when the command intercepted a large consignment of “Loud” worth over ₦18 billion.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Comptroller Onyeka stressed that the interception was not just another seizure but a deliberate attempt by criminal networks to undermine national security and endanger lives. He praised the vigilance and professionalism of Customs officers and partner agencies, noting that their swift action prevented the drugs from reaching the streets.
He explained that the contraband, shipped from Canada, was discovered after officers of the Enforcement Unit subjected a 40ft container (HAMU 247034/8) to thorough physical examination, acting on credible intelligence jointly gathered by the NCS and the NDLEA.
Onyeka emphasized two key lessons from the operation. First, criminal networks remain desperate to exploit Nigerian ports. Secondly, security agencies are alert, focused, and committed to stopping them.
He assured Nigerians that the command will intensify surveillance, deepen intelligence gathering, and sustain collaboration with the NDLEA and other agencies. He vowed that those behind the shipments will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted, warning that insider collaborators will not be spared.
“No matter how long it takes, such individuals will be tracked down and dealt with according to the law,” Onyeka declared.
The Area Controller expressed appreciation to Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) for their leadership and partnership in safeguarding national security.
The NDLEA formally took custody of the seized drugs after confirming they tested positive for Cannabis Indica.
Assistant Comptroller General Archieabia Ibinabo Ogboba described the event as a significant step in defending Nigeria against criminal merchants who prioritize profit over the lives and wellbeing of citizens.
She reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to working closely with Customs, stressing that the seizure sends a clear message:
“They are watching, they are working, and they will continue to frustrate every attempt to use our ports for illegal importation.”