Customs Hands Over Seized Cannabis and Codeine to NDLEA, NAFDAC

Customs Hands Over Seized Cannabis and Codeine to NDLEA, NAFDAC

Lagos, February 26, 2025 – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has officially handed over 4,973 loaves of Cannabis Sativa, two suspects, and 195 bottles of 300ml codeine to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for further investigation and prosecution.

Speaking at the handover ceremony in Lagos, Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye emphasized the command’s commitment to curbing the smuggling of illicit substances across the South-Western waterways. He noted that the latest seizures reaffirm the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in combating drug trafficking.

“You will recall that just last week, on Friday, February 21, 2025, we informed the press about the interception of 53 sacks of Cannabis Sativa. Again, on Monday, February 24, 2025, our patrol team apprehended two suspects with 29 loaves of Cannabis Sativa concealed in a sack of rebagged rice in the Badagry axis,” Bamisaiye stated.

He commended the synergy between the Customs Service and other security agencies, stressing that no single agency can win the fight against drug smuggling alone. He expressed confidence that the handover to NDLEA and NAFDAC would strengthen the ongoing crackdown on drug abuse and illicit trade.

The Comptroller also lauded the Comptroller-General of Customs and the management team for providing the necessary support, equipment, and welfare packages that enable officers to carry out their duties effectively.

“Our message to smugglers is clear—we are vigilant, we are resolute, and we will not relent,” he declared.

The seizure and handover underscore the NCS Western Marine Command’s determination to protect Nigeria’s waterways from criminal activities and ensure public safety.