RismadarVoice Reporters, May 14, 2026
The Nigeria Customs Service has intensified efforts to dismantle trans-border smuggling networks operating along the Idiroko border corridor in Ogun State, as the Ogun I Area Command handed over large quantities of seized cannabis to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, the Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Oladapo Afeni, said the command remains committed to sustaining pressure on smugglers operating along the Nigeria–Benin Republic border axis.
Afeni disclosed that the command had earlier, on March 16, handed over 2,543 parcels of cannabis sativa to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Idiroko Special Command, adding that anti-smuggling operations have since been strengthened.
According to him, recent operations by the command led to the seizure of 1,759 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, 10,126 parcels of cannabis indica, popularly referred to as “Ghanaian Loud,” 2,685 kegs of vegetable oil, and 14,550 litres of Premium Motor Spirit concealed in jerricans.
Other intercepted items included cartons of turkey vegetable oil, Basmati rice, footwear, sacks of raw cannabis sativa, bales of second-hand clothing, and kegs of diesel.
The acting controller valued the seized items at over N6.77 billion, noting that the smuggling of illicit drugs, foreign rice, and petroleum products poses serious threats to national security, public health, and local industries.
Afeni reiterated the command’s commitment to balancing border security with legitimate trade facilitation, encouraging compliant traders to continue lawful business activities.
He added that the command remains open to consultations and support for legitimate traders operating within the law.
In line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, the seized cannabis was formally transferred to the NDLEA for further investigation and destruction.
Receiving the items on behalf of the anti-drug agency, Ekundayo Williams described the operation as a significant breakthrough in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
Williams said the collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and the NDLEA sends a strong warning to criminal networks involved in the illegal drug trade and other smuggling activities across the nation’s borders.
