Nigeria Customs Intercepts Illicit Drugs Worth ₦562.5 Million in Badagry
Nigeria Customs Intercepts Illicit Drugs Worth ₦562.5 Million in Badagry
Nigeria Customs Intercepts Illicit Drugs Worth ₦562.5 Million in Badagry
In a major victory in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against drug trafficking, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted illicit drugs valued at an estimated ₦562.5 million in the Gbaji area of Badagry, Lagos State. The interception underscores the Service’s renewed commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders from criminal syndicates exploiting trade routes for illicit activities.
According to reports, the seizure was made by vigilant Customs officers during a coordinated patrol operation along the Gbaji axis, a known smuggling corridor connecting Nigeria to neighboring Benin Republic. The contraband, suspected to include a large cache of narcotics and controlled substances, was discovered concealed within a shipment disguised as legitimate goods.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) for the Seme Command, who confirmed the operation, described it as a “significant breakthrough” in curbing transborder drug trafficking. He commended the officers for their professionalism, intelligence-driven operations, and unwavering resolve in the face of increasing smuggling tactics.
“This interception represents our commitment to protecting Nigerians from the dangers of drug abuse and to dismantling the financial lifelines of criminal networks,” the CAC stated.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the illicit drugs were intended for distribution within the Lagos metropolitan area and other parts of the country. The smugglers reportedly fled upon sighting the patrol team, leaving behind the consignment. No arrests have been made yet, but the NCS has vowed to intensify its manhunt for the culprits in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other security agencies.
This latest bust adds to the growing list of successful operations by the Nigeria Customs Service in 2025, reflecting the Service’s enhanced intelligence-sharing mechanisms and use of modern surveillance technologies. The interception also reaffirms the federal government’s anti-drug stance and the synergy between security agencies in combating transnational crimes.
Drug smuggling remains one of the biggest threats to Nigeria’s national security, public health, and youth development. Analysts say that beyond enforcement, stronger cross-border cooperation, community awareness, and rehabilitation programs are essential to breaking the cycle of demand and supply.
The Customs Service has appealed to the public to provide credible information that can aid in identifying and dismantling drug cartels. Citizens are also urged to resist the temptation of quick profits from smuggling, as the consequences both legal and societal are severe.
With this latest success, the Nigeria Customs Service has once again demonstrated its crucial role not only as a revenue-generating agency but also as a key player in ensuring national security and public safety.
