Nigeria Customs Service Intercepts Expired Pharmaceuticals, Tramadol, and Concealed Codeine Worth N1.8 Billion at Apapa Port

Nigeria Customs Service Intercepts Expired Pharmaceuticals, Tramadol, and Concealed Codeine Worth N1.8 Billion at Apapa Port

Lagos, August 15, 2024– The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant breakthrough in its ongoing battle against smuggling and the importation of dangerous goods. The Comptroller-General of Customs, in a press briefing today at the Apapa Port Command, unveiled a series of high-value seizures worth N1.8 billion in Duty Paid Value (DPV). The intercepted goods include expired pharmaceuticals, large quantities of tramadol, and concealed codeine, among other contraband.

Speaking to the press, the Comptroller-General emphasized the NCS's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health and security of Nigerians. “Barely a month ago, I was here in Lagos to discuss with our officers the importance of due diligence in cargo examination, following significant arms seizures. Today, we continue to demonstrate our resolve to prevent the importation of harmful goods into Nigeria,” he stated.

The latest seizures include 12 containers carrying expired and controlled pharmaceutical products, many of which were smuggled without the necessary regulatory approvals, such as a NAFDAC registration number. The Comptroller-General highlighted the dangers posed by these illegal imports, noting that they could fuel criminal activities across the country.

Among the seized items was a 40ft container (No. SEGU4339917) filled with various expired pharmaceutical products, including immune supplements, pain relievers, and vitamins. These items, if distributed, could have severe consequences for public health. Other containers were found to be laden with tramadol and codeine, substances often abused and linked to criminal behavior.

In addition to the pharmaceuticals, two 40ft containers were intercepted with over 27,000 pieces of cutlasses and machetes, raising concerns about the intended use of these items.

The Comptroller-General commended the Apapa Port Command, particularly Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, for their diligent efforts in preventing these dangerous goods from entering the Nigerian market. He urged all port users to engage only in legitimate trade, warning that the NCS remains vigilant and fully committed to detecting and preventing all forms of smuggling.

This seizure underscores the NCS's role as a critical line of defense in protecting Nigeria from harmful imports while facilitating legitimate trade. As the largest revenue-generating command of the NCS, Apapa Port continues to set the standard in operational excellence and anti-smuggling activities.