LAGOS, NIGERIA — Nigeria Customs Service and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted a large cannabis shipment valued at approximately N16.6 billion at the Tincan Island Port in Lagos.
Security officials said the operation prevented the importation of 4,173.5 kilograms of cannabis concealed in containers reportedly shipped from Canada.
The interception was carried out following coordinated intelligence between both agencies aimed at curbing drug trafficking through Nigerian ports.
Officials stated that the seized shipment is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle international drug networks attempting to use Nigeria as a transit or distribution hub.
The agencies confirmed that the drugs were discovered during routine cargo inspections and targeted scanning procedures at the port.
Preliminary findings indicate that the shipment was falsely declared in order to evade detection by port authorities.
NDLEA officials described the seizure as one of the significant drug interceptions recorded in recent months, given the scale and estimated street value.
The agency has intensified operations across airports, seaports, and border communities in response to increasing attempts by traffickers to smuggle narcotics into the country.
Security experts say Nigeria remains a key transit point in West Africa’s drug trafficking routes due to its large maritime traffic and porous borders.
The Customs Service stated that improved technology deployment and inter-agency collaboration have strengthened its ability to detect illicit shipments.
Authorities also noted that investigations are ongoing to identify individuals and networks behind the importation.
Officials warned that those involved in drug trafficking will face prosecution under Nigerian law.
The NDLEA has repeatedly called for stricter enforcement measures and international cooperation to combat the global drug trade.
Analysts say drug seizures of this magnitude highlight both the scale of trafficking attempts and the growing efficiency of enforcement agencies.
Public health experts have also raised concerns about the social and security impact of illicit drug distribution, particularly among young people.
Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and preventing the country from becoming a hub for narcotics trafficking.
Attention now shifts to the outcome of investigations and possible arrests linked to the intercepted shipment.
