Customs Seizes N12.7bn Cannabis and Expired Drugs in Lagos

The Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), intercepted 1.81 tons of cannabis sativa, known as Canadian loud, along with expired pharmaceutical products valued at N12.7 billion during a joint operation at Apapa Port, Lagos. The seizure was disclosed in a statement by spokesperson Isah Sulaiman on Tuesday.

The operation, led by Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, utilized credible intelligence and advanced risk assessment profiling tools. The cannabis, found in a 40-foot container marked CAU7569127, is described as a highly potent strain of marijuana illegally imported into the country.

Additionally, two other 40-foot containers containing expired pharmaceutical products were intercepted, with drugs dating from 2021 to 2023, intended for repackaging and relabeling for circulation in the Nigerian market. Oshoba warned that these products pose serious health dangers to consumers.

The combined duty-paid value of the seized cannabis and expired drugs is estimated at N12.7 billion. The Customs Service reiterated its zero-tolerance policy against smuggling and emphasized ongoing efforts to block the import of prohibited items.