The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized illicit drugs and contraband goods valued at ₦20.5 billion in Rivers State, uncovering them in 16 concealed containers at the Port Harcourt Area II Command.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, confirmed that the seizure followed credible intelligence and strategic operations by customs officials in collaboration with other security agencies. According to him, the intercepted items included tramadol, codeine, and other restricted pharmaceuticals that were concealed with household items to evade detection.
The seizure, which marks one of the largest in recent times, is part of intensified efforts by the Customs Service to combat drug trafficking and smuggling across Nigeria’s ports. Adeniyi emphasized that the agency remains resolute in safeguarding the nation’s economy and public health.
“The smugglers deployed sophisticated concealment techniques, but our officers, with the support of inter-agency collaboration and intelligence, successfully identified and halted the illegal shipment,” he said.
He added that preliminary investigations have begun, and suspects connected to the shipment are being profiled for prosecution. The Customs boss commended the vigilance and professionalism of his officers while warning smugglers and their collaborators that the Service would not relent in its fight against economic sabotage.
This development comes amid growing concerns over the influx of illicit drugs and their role in fueling insecurity and social instability across the country.
