Join our Telegram group and receive breaking and trending news updates directly on your phone.
Join for News Updates ✕
By Correspondent in Lagos.
The Western Marine Command (WMC) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has dealt a major blow to smuggling operations, intercepting contraband goods valued at over N352 million, including 481 loaves of cannabis sativa, along the Badagry waterways.
The seizure, made between April 24 and June 24, was announced Tuesday in Lagos by the Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, who officially handed over the seized cannabis to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Addressing journalists during the handover, Ntadi said the command seized 2,017 bags of parboiled rice worth N212 million, the cannabis valued at N50 million, as well as seven sacks of 50kg sugar, 72 rolls of foreign textile materials, and nine smuggling boats, all together bringing the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) to N352 million.
“These seizures are a significant disruption to criminal syndicates operating across our waterways. They highlight our firm resolve to dismantle smuggling networks and protect Nigeria’s economy and society from illicit trade,” Ntadi stated.
he seizures were made in intensified operations across the Badagry creeks and surrounding coastal routes — known corridors for smugglers attempting to evade enforcement, according to him.
Ntadi attributed the success to improved intelligence gathering, increased patrol activities, and strong collaboration with other security agencies, especially the Nigeria Navy, which intercepted some of the rice-laden boats.
He emphasized the role of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, whose leadership and support, he said, had motivated the command to step up its anti-smuggling campaigns.
“With more patrol vessels now deployed, we are better equipped to monitor our waterways and respond swiftly to smuggling threats,” he said.
While handing over the cannabis to the Acting Commander of the NDLEA Marine Command, Mr. Emmanuel Morrison, Ntadi reiterated the Customs’ commitment to inter-agency cooperation in securing the nation’s borders and combating drug trafficking.
Ntadi also called on citizens living along the waterways to support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and illegal trade, stressing that “community vigilance is key to maintaining law and order.”
He vowed that the Western Marine Command would not relent in its mission to curb smuggling and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s maritime borders.
In response, Morrison commended the Customs Service for its vigilance and pledged that the NDLEA would investigate the source and network behind the intercepted cannabis.
“This collaboration is crucial in our joint efforts to rid the country of illicit drugs and bring perpetrators to justice,” Morrison said.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
Strategic Media Partnership for Growth and Reputation: Introducing The Reporters
The Reporters is a dynamic online news publication committed to delivering credible, timely, and impactful journalism across Nigeria and beyond. With a strong foundation in professional reporting and editorial integrity, the platform focuses on social, economic, political, and human development issues that shape public discourse. Backed by decades of journalistic experience, The Reporters offers a trusted voice that informs, educates, entertains, and influences a diverse and engaged audience.
For members of the business community, The Reporters provides a strategic platform to enhance visibility, build brand credibility, and connect with target markets. Through well-crafted news, features, interviews, sponsored content, and digital amplification, businesses can showcase their products, services, and innovations to a wider audience. This engagement not only drives patronage but also positions organisations as key contributors to economic growth and development.
Political actors and aspirants also stand to benefit significantly from partnering with The Reporters. As the 2027 elections approach, the platform offers an opportunity for politicians to effectively communicate their vision, programmes, and track records to the electorate. Through balanced profiling, issue-based coverage, and reputation management content, The Reporters helps shape public perception and strengthens candidates’ connection with voters.
Beyond visibility, The Reporters plays a crucial role in image laundering and perception management, presenting clients in a favourable, credible, and issue-driven light while maintaining ethical standards. By highlighting achievements, clarifying controversies, and projecting leadership qualities, the platform supports politicians in building trust and acceptance among constituents, which are critical assets in any electoral contest.
Engaging with The Reporters is therefore not just about publicity, it is about strategic communication for mutual benefit. Partners gain access to a credible media channel with the wide reach of The Reporters while it continues to fulfill its mandate of promoting development-oriented narratives. We invite stakeholders in both business and political spheres to collaborate with us in shaping informed opinions, driving growth, and advancing democratic engagement.
Prospective clients can reach us via WhatsApp: 08032901058 or email: ahmeddada008@gmail.com.
- Management
