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The Nigeria Customs Service uncovered the illicit shipment, valued at ₦26.5 billion, hidden inside imported vehicles within a 40-foot shipping container.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Area Command collaborated with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to uncover a massive seizure. Following credible intelligence, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba detailed that the agencies jointly seized 4,143.5 kg of Cannabis Indica (valued at N26.57 billion) concealed among used imported vehicles in a 40-foot container.
On July 10, 2026, Nigeria Customs Service Comptroller Oshoba stated that a thorough examination of a 40ft container No. FANU1933352 at the Apapa Port revealed three vehicles: a red Nissan Micra (2015 model), a black Toyota Corolla 2019 model, and a gray Toyota Corolla 2015 model.
Inside, they found 162 bags containing 8,287 parcels of Cannabis Indica, each weighing 500 grammes.
A detailed inventory of the recovered items revealed that four bags were hidden within the red Nissan Micra. The remaining 158 bags were stashed on the shipping container’s floor and within the gaps between the three vehicles.
Oshoba said no illicit substances were found in the other two vehicles, noting that the seizure is in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and extant laws.
He also highlighted the Apapa Area Command’s unwavering vigilance and dedication to intercepting prohibited items, particularly illicit drugs that endanger public health, safety and national security.
Oshoba emphasised that the action also aligns with the zero-tolerance directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adeniyi, against all forms of illicit trade in the nation’s ports.
The CAC reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to facilitate legitimate trade while rigorously enforcing the law against the importation of prohibited and restricted goods.
Oshoba commended the officers of the Command for their diligence and professionalism in carrying out the examination.
This seizure once again demonstrates our untiring commitment to ensuring that only lawful trade thrives in Apapa Port.
As we intensify investigation into the matter, I want to reiterate that this command has made the port a no-go area for anything forbidden by our laws.
He assured, “Let me use this opportunity to rebuild the confidence of our compliant traders and assure them once again that they would always enjoy the many trade facilitation incentives available.”
