The synergy between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Port Command and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has yielded more results as not less than 347.5 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, hidden inside an imported Toyota Sienna vehicle have been intercepted.
The seizure of the contraband which is high on the Import Prohibition List (IPL) managed by NCS on behalf of the Federal Government is coming on the heels of Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba receiving the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Certificate of Merit.
The command in a statement made available to Maritime Bits revealed that the illicit substance was concealed in no fewer than 13 bags within one of four vehicles contained in a single import consignment.
According to the statement which was signed by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the command, Mr. Isah Sulaiman, a detailed weighing confirmed the breakdown as 10 bags at 25kg each, one at 29kg, and two at 34.5kg and 34kg respectively, totaling 347.5kg. This marks the fourth significant joint drug interception by the NCS and NDLEA at Apapa Port in two months, underscoring Comptroller Oshoba’s firm commitment that no cargo whether import or export will pass through the port without thorough examination.
Sulaiman, a Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC), quoted Oshoba warning that “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 explained that the operation highlights the exemplary inter-agency collaboration championed by the Comptroller General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
The CAC averred that through intelligence sharing and joint efforts, NCS and NDLEA officers have consistently outmaneuvered smuggling networks in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Oshoba noted that the seizure is a direct outcome of this strengthened partnership and emphasized that the upcoming deployment of a high-capacity 200-container-per-hour drive-through scanner will further enhance technology-driven anti-smuggling operations.
He added that both agencies’ Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) continue to foster zero tolerance, unwavering professionalism and seamless cooperation among officers.
He revealed that in line with established protocols, the seized 347.5kg of Canadian Loud has been formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution of associated suspects.
“This latest success builds on the recognition accorded to Comptroller Oshoba and NDLEA Apapa Special Area Commander Mohammed Tukur, who were both awarded the WCO Certificate of Merit on Monday, 26 January 2026, in Abuja as part of activities commemorating the International Customs Day celebrations in Nigeria.
“This interception aligns with the 2026 ICD theme: Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment. The CAC reaffirms the command’s dedication to facilitating legitimate trade while intensifying efforts to disrupt illicit activities and safeguard society”, the statement added.
