The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 1.8 tonnes of cannabis sativa, popularly known as “Canadian Loud,” alongside multiple containers of expired pharmaceutical products in a major intelligence-led operation.
The breakthrough, achieved in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), underscores renewed efforts to combat transnational organised crime, illicit trade, and threats to public health at Nigeria’s busiest seaport.
Customs officials disclosed that the drug consignment was intercepted on Monday, June 15, 2026, following credible intelligence and advanced risk assessment. The seizure involved a 40-foot container (No. CAAU7569127) carrying 3,639 sachets of cannabis, each weighing 500 grams, bringing the total to approximately 1,819 kilogrammes.
The illicit substance was cleverly concealed hidden among bags and drums inside vehicles, including a Toyota Sienna in what authorities described as a sophisticated smuggling attempt.
In a related development, the Command also intercepted two 40-foot containers laden with expired pharmaceutical products, some dating back to 2021, 2022, and 2023. Investigations revealed that the importers intended to relabel the products and reintroduce them into the Nigerian market.
The seized drugs and pharmaceuticals valued at a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦12.78 billion include antibiotics, vitamin injections, eye drops, and other medical supplies, many of which pose serious health risks if consumed.
Customs authorities said the interceptions prevented potentially harmful and ineffective medications from reaching hospitals, pharmacies, and households across the country.
Speaking on the development, the Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, issued a stern warning to those involved in smuggling and illegal importation.
“Unpatriotic importers and their collaborators who engage in drug trafficking and the importation of expired pharmaceuticals are enemies of Nigeria’s progress. We have the intelligence, the technology, and the resolve to identify and apprehend them”, he said.
Oshoba added that Apapa Port would not be allowed to serve as a conduit for economic sabotage or threats to public health, stressing that surveillance across Customs-controlled areas has been intensified.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting the Nigerian economy, safeguarding public health, and facilitating legitimate trade through intelligence-driven enforcement strategies.
The Customs boss further assured Nigerians that operations would be intensified to prevent criminal exploitation of the nation’s borders while supporting the Federal Government’s ease of doing business agenda.
The latest seizures highlight the growing sophistication of smuggling networks and the increasing vigilance of enforcement agencies at the nation’s maritime gateways.