In a significant move against illegal drug imports, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Tincan Island Port Command has announced its latest milestone in both revenue generation and enforcement operations.
The Command disclosed that it seized 16 containers carrying illicit and unregistered pharmaceutical products with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of approximately ₦37 billion. This action underscores the Command’s commitment to safeguarding public health and compliance with Customs regulations.
During a press briefing, Customs Area Controller of the Tincan Island Command, DA Nnadi, revealed that the Command has generated a record-breaking revenue of over ₦1 trillion—₦1,046,496,593,103.60—between January and November 2024.
This marks the first time in its history that the Command has surpassed the ₦1 trillion mark, a milestone dedicated to the efforts of Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and his management team.
“We choose this slogan because we believe that our stakeholders must align with the vision of a new Nigeria,” said Nnadi. “Our slogan for the week is Reform or Regret.”
The Command’s revenue collection, boosted by enforcement of Customs regulations and interagency cooperation, has been instrumental in achieving this landmark figure.
Nnadi acknowledged the contributions of the DCG Tariff and Trade, DCG ICT/Modernization, and DCG Enforcement, Investigation & Inspection, stating that their combined efforts have fostered a more secure port environment conducive to increased compliance and revenue.
Seizure of Illicit Pharmaceuticals
The press briefing also unveiled details of the 16 containers containing various dangerous drugs, which were seized in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Nigeria Police (NP), and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Key seized items included:
Codeine-based products: Including Barcadin, Broncleer, and DSP cough syrups containing codeine.
Tapentadol & Carisoprodol: 420 cartons of Royal 225, containing Tapentadol HVCL 125mg and Carisoprodol BP 100mg.
Benzhexol Tablets: 200 cartons of 5mg Benzhexol Tablets (Trodal).
Cannabis Indica: Various weights totaling 341 kg, including shipments from Canada.
Diclofenac Sodium Tablets: 100 packs of Really Extra brand per carton.
The Command also seized goods unrelated to drugs, such as ceiling fans, blenders, and other items.
Vessels transporting the drugs included the SpilKartika, Volana, Maliako, WadiBani Khalid, MSC Sweden VI, and MSC Katyayni NY427A. The drugs originated from several countries, including India, the UK, and Canada.
On October 2, 2024, the Command handed over 684 packets of Cannabis Indica to NDLEA with an estimated street value of ₦682 million. This ongoing collaboration with NAFDAC and NDLEA reflects Tincan Island’s proactive approach in intercepting harmful drugs at the nation’s borders.
Commitment to Stakeholder Compliance and Seasonal Readiness
Nnadi highlighted that the Tincan Island Command has dedicated 2024 as “The Year of the Stakeholders,” in line with the International Customs Day theme, “Customs Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose.” Through outreach and education, the Command has encouraged stakeholders toward voluntary compliance.
The Command reassured compliant stakeholders of efficient cargo delivery processes, especially as the year-end festive period approaches.
However, Nnadi warned, “we are also using this opportunity to inform those who will dare our resolve that we are ready to enforce the requirements of our law.”
The Command’s achievements and ongoing enforcement measures signify its commitment to mitigating the inflow of illicit drugs into Nigeria.
Nnadi concluded the briefing by thanking stakeholders for their cooperation and partnership in safeguarding Nigerian society.
