Apapa NDLEA intercepts 13 drug containers in one year

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at Nigeria's Apapa port has reported significant seizures and legal actions over a one-year period. Between June 2025 and June 2026, the Apapa Strategic Command intercepted 13 containers carrying various illicit substances. This operation also resulted in the imposition of fines exceeding $12 million on two international vessels and secured a three-year prison sentence for a male drug convict without the option of a fine.

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From June 2025 to June 2026, the Command intercepted and seized a total of 13 containers containing various illicit substances. Within the period under review, Apapa Strategic Command secured convictions/fines of over $12m on two international vessels, and a three-year conviction for one male drug convict without the option of a fine.

Tukur Mohammed, Commander of Narcotics for the Apapa Strategic Command, disclosed these figures during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking event. The seized substances included approximately 162.47 tonnes of codeine-based syrup, 77 kilograms of cocaine recovered from three vessels, 8.1 tonnes of cannabis indica, and 1.5 tonnes of cannabis sativa. These seizures underscore the persistent challenges posed by drug trafficking through major port facilities.

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Beyond the immediate health concerns, illicit drug activities continue to undermine economic progress, contribute to insecurity, weaken communities, and threaten the future of our younger generation.

Mohammed emphasized that drug trafficking and substance abuse activities not only pose health risks but also undermine economic progress, fuel insecurity, weaken communities, and threaten the younger generation. He highlighted the need for adaptive, evidence-based, and coordinated solutions to confront the evolving nature of global drug challenges. The NDLEA remains committed to building a society free from the influence of illicit drugs, acknowledging that organized criminal networks continuously adopt new methods and exploit technological advancements.

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The reality before us is that while significant progress has been made in combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking, new challenges continue to emerge.