The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Command, recently intercepted 16 containers carrying illicit substances, unregistered pharmaceutical products, and other prohibited items. These containers, discharged between May 17 and October 23, 2024, have a total duty-paid value of N4 billion.
Customs Area Controller for the command, Dera Nnadi, made the announcement during a press briefing in Apapa, Lagos, on Thursday. He revealed that from January to November 7, 2024, the command collected a record N1.046 trillion in revenue, marking a historic achievement for the command.
“We are pleased to announce that the command has achieved a total of N1.046 trillion in revenue as of November 7, 2024,” Nnadi stated, highlighting the role of stakeholder cooperation in this success.
The intercepted 13 containers of illicit drugs, including cough syrups containing codeine, Tapentadol tablets, and cannabis sativa, will be handed over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). These substances were inspected by multiple agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Among the seized items were 420 cartons of Royal 225 drugs, 200 cartons of Benzhexol Tablets, and 532 packets of cannabis weighing 265.025kg. Other goods found in the containers included ceiling fans, chill cutters, stainless steel blenders, and Biomal Artesunate injections.
The drugs originated from countries such as India, the United Kingdom, and Canada. On October 2, 2024, the command also seized 684 packets of Cannabis Indica, weighing 341.025kg, with an estimated street value of N682 million.
Nnadi credited the success to the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the efforts of the command’s officers. He assured stakeholders that the Tincan Island Command would continue to work with local and international partners to combat illegal imports, particularly unregistered pharmaceuticals.
“As the holiday season approaches, we will ensure that compliant traders face no delays in cargo delivery. However, we are fully committed to enforcing the law against those who attempt to circumvent it,” Nnadi warned.
