Uche Cecil Izuora
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), diligently trailed and detained 25 containers with illicit drugs, unregistered pharmaceuticals, and counterfeit products valued at over N9.2 billion at Apapa Port, Lagos.
The goods have been handed over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
The seizure is part of enhanced enforcement efforts following a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between NCS and NAFDAC in November 2024. The MoU has facilitated coordinated operations, joint investigations, and intelligence sharing to systematically trace and dismantle criminal networks smuggling dangerous pharmaceutical products into Nigeria.
Adeniyi revealed that the Customs Service plans to review licenses of bonded terminals nationwide after uncovering trade infractions at some terminals in Lagos. The seized containers included counterfeit medications and prohibited substances such as codeine-based preparations, which pose serious risks to public health.
Under the coordination of the National Security Advisor’s office, joint operations involving NCS, NAFDAC, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have resulted in the seizure of over 200 containers of illicit goods, with unregistered pharmaceuticals accounting for 63.7% of the seizure value.
Adeniyi commended the vigilance and professionalism of customs officers at Apapa Port, whose dedication was key to these complex interdictions. He reiterated the commitment of the Customs Service to making Nigeria’s seaports, airports, and land borders impenetrable to smuggling, ensuring the protection of national health and security.