The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized counterfeit, expired, and unregistered pharmaceuticals alongside restricted equipment like drones and telecom devices, valued at ₦921 million.
Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi announced this during a press briefing at Apapa Port on April 30, 2025.
He emphasized the increasing complexity of smuggling operations and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing import laws.
CGC Adeniyi warned that smugglers are now mixing pharmaceuticals, food items, and controlled technology in single shipments.
“Our vigilance is key to stopping transnational criminals,” he declared.
The seizures, made between January and April 2025, included 11 shipments—five 40-foot containers, two 20-foot containers, and four other consignments.
Among the confiscated items were expired margarine, unregistered sexual enhancement drugs, 60 warrior drones, and 10 FM transceivers.
The Customs chief raised alarms over unregistered drugs, stressing their danger to public health.
“These products violate Section 28 of the NAFDAC Act,” he stated.
He praised Apapa Command officers for their professionalism and vowed to deploy all resources to secure borders against threats to national security and public safety.
NAFDAC’s Director of Ports Inspection, Dr. Olakunle Olaniran, condemned the seized drugs as falsified and urged Nigerians to avoid self-medication.
“Buy only from licensed pharmacies,” he advised. He also commended Customs for preventing harmful pharmaceuticals from entering the market.
Earlier, CGC Adeniyi inspected the PTML and Tin Can Island Ports to assess the B’Odogwu digital platform’s implementation. He engaged stakeholders undergoing training and assured them of resolving any operational challenges. “We are committed to improving this system for national benefit,” he said.
The NCS reiterated its call for importers to comply with regulations, warning of strict penalties for violations. As smuggling tactics evolve, Customs and NAFDAC remain united in protecting public health, security, and the economy. Their collaborative efforts underscore a zero-tolerance stance against illicit trade.
