The Tin Can Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) made a significant announcement on Friday regarding their interception of illicit substances imported into the country, underscoring their commitment to safeguarding national security and public health. According to Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of Customs, the command seized a total of 2,144 packets of Cannabis indica from Canada, valued at approximately N3.2 billion. In addition to this substantial seizure, they also intercepted Codeine syrup, tramadol, and other contraband originating from India, with a total estimated value of N964.3 million. Consequently, the cumulative value of all seized drugs amounted to a staggering N4.16 billion.
Addressing journalists in Lagos, Adeniyi emphasized that these seizures were testament to the Customs Service’s unwavering vigilance in detecting and disrupting attempts to harm the nation through illicit imports. He provided detailed insights into the intercepted shipments, citing specific instances such as a 40-foot container holding regulated pharmaceutical products and another containing illicit psychotropic substances. The latter included plastic drums concealing numerous packets of Cannabis Indica, totaling 1,072 kilograms in weight.
The Comptroller-General highlighted the operational details, stating that the intercepted substances were part of sophisticated smuggling operations that posed significant challenges to national security and public safety. He stressed the ongoing investigations aimed at apprehending those responsible for importing these illegal drugs into Nigeria. Adeniyi further assured the public of the Customs Service’s dedication to working closely with domestic and international agencies to combat such criminal activities effectively.
Moreover, Adeniyi drew attention to the broader implications of drug abuse within Nigerian society, noting its detrimental effects on public health and its contribution to escalating criminal activities. He singled out Codeine and Cannabis Indica as particularly problematic substances due to their widespread misuse, which not only undermines individual health but also fuels criminal behaviors and societal instability. The misuse of Codeine, a restricted drug in Nigeria, has had devastating consequences, especially among the youth population.
Beyond health concerns, Adeniyi underscored the economic ramifications of the illicit drug trade, which often funds disruptive activities by non-state actors, posing a severe threat to national security and economic stability. The Customs Service’s proactive stance in intercepting these substances serves not only to protect public health but also to mitigate broader security risks associated with organized crime and insurgency.
In conclusion, Adeniyi reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to combating illicit activities, urging patriotic Nigerians to continue their legitimate business endeavors with confidence in the Customs Service’s efforts to enhance security and ease operational challenges. He reiterated that those engaged in illicit activities would face the full force of the law, underscoring the NCS’s resolve to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the well-being of all Nigerians.
The recent seizures by the Tin Can Island Command highlight the ongoing battle against sophisticated smuggling networks and underscore the urgent need for concerted efforts by all stakeholders to address the multifaceted challenges posed by illicit drug trafficking. As investigations proceed and enforcement actions intensify, the NCS remains steadfast in its mission to secure Nigeria’s borders and promote a stable, prosperous environment for all citizens.
