Apapa Customs seizes ₦3.25Bn in fake drugs, codeine, cars

In a decisive operation, the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has confiscated six containers filled with illegal goods worth ₦3.25 billion.

Among the seized items were unregistered pharmaceuticals, counterfeit cosmetics, used clothing, and two stolen Lexus SUVs smuggled from Canada.

This operation highlights the agency’s unwavering dedication to stopping smuggling and protecting public health.

During a press conference on 22 May 2025, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller, revealed key details of the bust.

He stressed that while trade facilitation remains a priority, enforcing compliance with customs laws is non-negotiable.

“We will never compromise regulations for the sake of trade,” Olomu declared. “Our primary duty is to shield Nigerians from dangerous imports.”

Codeine Concealment and Illegal Shipments Exposed

Authorities discovered over 3,300 cartons of codeine cough syrup cleverly hidden inside toilet seats in two containers. The codeine alone has an estimated street value of ₦2.7 billion. International cooperation, including support from the NDLEA, played a crucial role in this interception. Additionally, officers seized misdeclared skincare products, 390 bales of used clothing, and the stolen vehicles, all violating Nigeria’s customs laws and global anti-smuggling agreements.

Suspects Arrested as Investigations Continue

Three individuals linked to the smuggling operation have been arrested and are under interrogation. Comptroller Olomu warned criminals that Apapa Port remains off-limits for illegal activities. “Our officers are trained to uncover concealments, seize contraband, and arrest offenders,” he stated firmly.

Revenue Surpasses Target Amidst Enforcement Success

Beyond anti-smuggling efforts, the Apapa Command reported outstanding revenue performance, collecting ₦1.094 trillion as of 21 May 2025. Olomu attributed this achievement to improved enforcement and operational efficiency, with record-breaking daily revenue in recent months.

Agencies Unite to Combat Drug Trafficking

The operation underscores the power of inter-agency collaboration. NDLEA’s Assistant Commander, Buba Wakawa, noted that smugglers have shifted tactics after India restricted codeine exports to Nigeria. “Now, they produce in neighboring countries like Chad, but we are tightening the net,” he explained. NAFDAC’s Deputy Director, Kingsley Odumah, praised the joint efforts in blocking fake drugs from entering the market.

Zero Tolerance for Smuggling

The NCS has issued a stern warning to smugglers, emphasizing heightened port surveillance. Olomu reaffirmed the command’s commitment to strict enforcement, ensuring Nigeria’s borders remain secure. This bust not only showcases the NCS’s effectiveness but also the critical role of teamwork in dismantling smuggling networks.