The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin-Can Island Port Command, has intercepted a 40-foot container laden with Cannabis Indica valued at over ₦4.7 billion, in a major anti-smuggling operation that underscores heightened inter-agency vigilance at the nation’s busiest seaport.
Briefing journalists on Wednesday, the Customs Area Controller, Tin-Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, alongside Customs officials, Commander of the NDLEA, Tincan Island Strategic Command, said the seizure was the outcome of sustained intelligence-led operations aimed at securing Nigeria’s borders and protecting public health.
The Command noted that the operation aligns with the theme of the World Customs Organization (WCO) 2026 International Customs Day, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment.”
According to Onyeka, the breakthrough occurred on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, following an extensive physical examination conducted jointly by Customs officers, operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Department of State Services (DSS), in the presence of the cargo declarant.
The examination revealed that container No. HLXU841299/0 contained fifty-five jumbo bags of Cannabis Indica, alongside a Colt’s MK IV/Series 70 .45 calibre automatic pistol with an empty magazine.
Further analysis showed that the seized narcotics comprised 2,366 individual packages with a combined weight of 1,183 kilograms, carrying an estimated street value of ₦4.732 billion, while one suspect has been arrested in connection with the consignment.
Investigators disclosed that the prohibited items were ingeniously concealed within three used vehicles, a Hyundai Santa Fe, a Toyota Sienna, and a Toyota Matrix imported to evade detection.
The Command confirmed that the seized drugs would be formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution, while the firearm would be transferred to the appropriate agency in line with extant regulations.
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance, the Nigeria Customs Service warned that drug trafficking and other transnational crimes would continue to attract decisive enforcement actions at all ports of entry.
The Command also commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, PhD, MFR, for his leadership and sustained support, noting that his strategic direction has significantly strengthened inter-agency collaboration and operational efficiency.
Customs assured the public of its unwavering commitment to sustained vigilance, pledging to intensify efforts to combat smuggling and safeguard national security and public safety.
