Comptroller Dera Nnadi, mni, Customs Area Controller of Tin-Can Island Port, was honored with an award recognizing his significant contributions to the fight against drug importation in Nigeria. The award ceremony took place during the commissioning of the ultra-modern office facility of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event was graced by the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd), who presented the award to Nnadi.

The new facility, donated to the NDLEA by the United Kingdom Drug Enforcement Agency, symbolizes a commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s drug enforcement capabilities.

Comptroller Nnadi has played a pivotal role in combating drug trafficking, leading to high-profile seizures at Tin-Can Port, including the interception of two containers filled with cocaine and another containing heroin, all shipped from South Africa. Notably, his command achieved a historic milestone with the seizure of 1,072 kg of Canadian loud, marking the largest single seizure of Cannabis Indica at any seaport in Nigeria.

During the ceremony, General Marwa praised the collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the NDLEA, urging for increased partnerships to strengthen the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the country.

Other award recipients included His Excellency Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, represented by the Secretary of the Lagos State Government, Barrister Bola Salu-Hundeyin, the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, and the Managing Director of Eko Atlantic City, Mr. Chagoury.

The event also showcased the diving and retrieval expertise of NDLEA marine officers, who demonstrated their skills to the attendees, further emphasizing the agency’s commitment to tackling drug-related challenges in Nigeria.

The award presentation serves as a testament to the vital role played by law enforcement agencies in safeguarding the nation against the threats posed by illicit drug trade.