By Micah Jonah
January 16, 2025
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has intensified efforts to secure the nation’s waterways, intercepting 20 sacks of Cannabis Indica worth ₦157.83 million. The drugs, carefully packaged into 1,205 wraps, were suspected to have been illegally smuggled into Nigeria through maritime routes.
Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, the Customs Area Controller, briefed journalists at the command on Wednesday, attributing the successful operation to enhanced intelligence, improved inter-agency collaboration, and the proactive leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
“This January, we are taking delivery of seven new boats. With these, our operations at sea will be more efficient, effective, helping us achieve even more operational goals,” Ntadi stated.
In addition to enforcement, the command has emphasized trade facilitation. The Container Seat team successfully escorted 21,414 containers from the main port to bonded terminals, ensuring compliance, transparency, and smooth cargo movement.
“These achievements reaffirm our commitment to revenue protection, border security, and facilitating legitimate trade,” Ntadi added.
The seized drugs have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for investigation and prosecution.
During a parade at the command, Ntadi welcomed visiting Area Controllers from Zone A, including Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba of Apapa, Comptroller Joe Anani of Port & Terminal Multi-Services Limited, and Comptroller Frank Onyeka of Tin Can Island Port.
The visiting officials urged officers to maintain strict discipline and professionalism. “Discipline, foresight, and professionalism are key. They are essential for surviving and excelling in this environment,” Comptroller Oshoba emphasized.
The Western Marine Command continues to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime security while ensuring that legitimate trade flows unhindered.
