Customs Seizes N43.5bn Worth of Drugs and Drones

The Nigeria Customs Service, led by Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi, handed over seized narcotics, controlled pharmaceuticals, drones, and expired products worth N43.5 billion to relevant government agencies on Thursday at Apapa Port in Lagos. The narcotics were transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), while the controlled and expired pharmaceutical products were given to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

Adeniyi stated that these seizures highlight Customs' critical role in securing the supply chain and protecting Nigeria's borders. He noted that criminal networks are increasingly using false declarations to smuggle prohibited items.

The Customs Service intercepted 11 containers, which included 15,245 parcels of cannabis sativa, 169,998 bottles of codeine syrup, 100 high-definition drones, and various expired goods. Adeniyi warned that these drones could be misused for unauthorized surveillance.

The operation reflects improved intelligence and collaboration with NDLEA and international partners.