By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Lekki Free Trade Zone Command, has intercepted 400 kilogrammes of suspected illicit cannabis valued at N2.26 billion, warning drug traffickers against using the port as a channel for prohibited substances.
The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller Olufemi Kukoyi, disclosed this on Thursday, October 15, 2026, in Lekki, Lagos, while announcing the formal handover of the seized drugs to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Kukoyi said the seizure followed the interception of a suspicious container, with registration number PRSU1562064, on August 19, 2026. The container was reportedly destined for a bonded terminal outside the Command’s jurisdiction.
“Recognising the potential security implications and risks, a joint team of enforcement officers subjected it to examination,” he said.
According to him, a thorough examination of the container led to the discovery of 400 packages of Cannabis Sativa, weighing 400 kilogrammes, concealed among 798 reams of A4 printing paper.
The seized substance has a Duty Paid Value of N2,262,960,000, he said.
Kukoyi described the interception as a significant operational success in the fight against drug trafficking, noting that the seizure would help protect Nigerians from the harmful consequences of illicit drug distribution and abuse.
He reiterated that the Lekki Free Trade Zone Command would not allow the port to become a gateway for prohibited goods, reaffirming the Service’s commitment to border security, trade compliance and the protection of public health.
In line with established procedures, the seized substance was formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and necessary action.
Receiving the consignment, the Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Lekki Port Area Command, Commander Jonah Achema, described the seizure as a strong warning to maritime drug traffickers and pledged to strengthen inter-agency collaboration in tackling the illicit drug trade.
“The seizure being handed over today, 400 kilogrammes of Cannabis Indica from Thailand, is huge by all standards,” Achema said.
He disclosed that the latest interception followed other major seizures at the port, including two containers of illicit pharmaceutical opioids identified as Tramadol 225 and Tramaking Royal 250.
According to him, the opioid consignments weighed a combined 46 tonnes and had an estimated street value of N35 billion.
Achema said the NDLEA would continue to work closely with the Customs Service and other relevant agencies to prevent the importation and distribution of illicit drugs through the nation’s maritime corridors.
The latest seizure underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in disrupting drug trafficking networks, protecting public health and preventing Nigeria’s ports from being exploited for the movement of prohibited substances.
