The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Tin-Can Island Port Command has announced a historic revenue achievement, generating over N1 trillion in customs duty—the first in its history. The Command reported generating a total of N1,046,496,593,103.60 in revenue as of November 7, attributing this milestone to collaborative reforms and stringent enforcement measures in line with the Comptroller General’s policy on consolidation, collaboration, and innovation.
In addition to the revenue milestone, the Command unveiled 16 containers of illicit and unregistered pharmaceutical products, including codeine-based cough syrups, Tramadol, and other dangerous drugs with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of approximately N37 billion. Customs Area Controller DA Nnadi emphasized the Command’s commitment to upholding strict import regulations, particularly against the importation of illegal drugs that could jeopardize public health and safety.
The seized containers, discharged between May and October 2024, contained significant quantities of controlled substances, including:
– Codeine: 1,894,600 bottles valued at N13 billion.
– Tramadol: 920 cartons worth N23 billion.
– Cannabis Indica: 341 kg valued at N682 million.
These seizures, inspected by Customs along with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), reflect the Command’s proactive approach in collaboration with other agencies to combat the inflow of unregulated pharmaceuticals. The seized items originated from various countries, including India, the United Kingdom, and Canada, and were transported via vessels like the SpilKartika and MSC Sweden VI.
In light of the impending holiday season, the Command assured stakeholders of streamlined processes for compliant cargo handling while warning non-compliant importers of strict enforcement measures. Controller Nnadi reiterated the NCS’s mission to protect public health and strengthen national security through intensified inspection and enforcement practices at the Tin-Can Island Port.
The Command also highlighted a previous handover of seized cannabis valued at over N682 million on October 2, 2024, showcasing its ongoing dedication to curbing illegal imports and safeguarding the country’s borders.