In a major joint operation, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Port Command, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has intercepted 347.5 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, concealed inside an imported Toyota Sienna vehicle at the Apapa Port.
A statement issued by Isah Sulaiman, Chief Superintendent of Customs and Customs Public Relations Officer, Apapa Port Command explained that the seizure was made barely 24 hours after the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, received the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Certificate of Merit, further underscoring the Command’s intensified anti-smuggling drive.
The illicit substance was discovered hidden in thirteen (13) bags inside one of four vehicles contained in a single import consignment. A detailed weighing revealed ten bags weighing 25kg each, one bag weighing 29kg, and two bags weighing 34.5kg and 34kg respectively, bringing the total to 347.5kg.
This interception marks the fourth major joint drug seizure by the NCS and NDLEA at the Apapa Port in less than two months, reflecting Comptroller Oshoba’s firm stance that no import or export cargo will pass through the port without thorough examination.
Reacting to the seizure, Comptroller Oshoba issued a stern warning to criminal elements, stating that any attempt to traffic prohibited items through Apapa Port would be uncovered and defeated.
“Any attempt by criminal elements to traffic prohibited items through Apapa Port will be detected and thwarted. We remain vigilant and resolute in the discharge of our duty to protect our society and national security,” he said.
The operation further highlights the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration championed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. Through enhanced intelligence sharing and joint operations, officers of the NCS and NDLEA have continued to outmaneuver smuggling networks operating within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Comptroller Oshoba noted that the seizure was a direct outcome of the strengthened partnership between both agencies. He added that the planned deployment of a high-capacity drive-through scanner capable of scanning 200 containers per hour would further boost technology-driven anti-smuggling operations at the port.
Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to zero tolerance, professionalism and seamless cooperation in line with established Standard Operating Procedures. In accordance with protocol, the seized 347.5kg of Canadian Loud has been formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution of suspects connected to the shipment.
The latest success also builds on the recognition earlier accorded to Comptroller Oshoba and the NDLEA Apapa Special Area Commander, Mohammed Tukur, who were both awarded the WCO Certificate of Merit on Monday, January 26, 2026, in Abuja during activities marking the International Customs Day celebrations in Nigeria.
The interception aligns with the 2026 International Customs Day theme, “Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment.” Comptroller Oshoba reaffirmed the Apapa Port Command’s dedication to facilitating legitimate trade while intensifying efforts to disrupt illicit activities and safeguard society.
