Nigeria Customs at Tin Can Island Port Seizes ₦37 Billion in Illicit Drugs, Sets Revenue Record

Nigeria Customs at Tin Can Island Port Seizes ₦37 Billion in Illicit Drugs, Sets Revenue Record

Lagos, Nigeria – November 7, 2024*

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at Tin Can Island Port Command has reported the seizure of illicit drugs and unregistered pharmaceuticals worth an estimated ₦37 billion, marking one of its largest drug busts to date. This announcement came during a press briefing led by the Customs Area Controller, Da Nnadi, who also highlighted a record revenue collection of over ₦1 trillion by the Command, a historic first.

**Massive Seizures of Illicit Substances and Pharmaceuticals**

The Tin Can Island Command detailed the seizure of 16 containers filled with various unregistered pharmaceutical drugs and narcotics, including:

- **Tramadol:** 920 cartons in two 40-foot containers, valued at ₦23 billion.

- **Codeine Syrups:** 1,894,600 bottles packed in eleven 40-foot containers, with an estimated worth of ₦13 billion.

- **Cannabis Indica:** 341 kg across three containers, valued at approximately ₦682 million.

These containers, discharged between May and October 2024, contained codeine-based cough syrups, benzhexol tablets, potent painkillers, and cannabis. The narcotics and unregistered drugs, imported from countries including India, the UK, and Canada, were discovered on vessels operated by Hapag Lloyd and MSC.

**Collaboration with Other Agencies**

Following thorough inspections by the NCS, NDLEA, and NAFDAC, the Command handed over 13 containers of unregistered pharmaceuticals to NAFDAC. In an earlier operation on October 2, the Command had already transferred 341 kg of cannabis to the NDLEA for further action, demonstrating the agency's commitment to interagency collaboration in fighting illicit drug trafficking.

**Record-Breaking Revenue Collection**

In addition to the significant seizures, the Tin Can Island Command announced an unprecedented revenue milestone, having collected over ₦1 trillion in customs duties this year. This accomplishment, Controller Nnadi said, reflects the Command’s dedication to compliance and efficiency under the leadership of Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR. 

**Enforcement Ahead of the Yuletide Season**

As the holiday season approaches, the Command assured compliant importers of timely cargo processing, while reiterating its zero-tolerance policy for illegal importation. 

**A Call for Compliance**

The NCS at Tin Can Island Port remains resolute in its mission to protect Nigerian society from the harm of unregulated pharmaceuticals and illegal drugs. By fostering partnerships with stakeholders and leveraging both local and international security networks, the Command aims to uphold its commitment to public safety and national security.

Controller Nnadi extended appreciation to the press, stakeholders, and Nigerians for their support, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilance and lawful conduct in the nation’s ports.