Comptroller Frank Onyeka Intensifies Efforts On Anti-Smuggling Operations
By Asuquo Nuwak
Comptroller Frank Onyeka Intensifies Efforts On Anti-Smuggling Operations
••• Seizes and handover 185 jumbo bags of illicit drugs worth N18.9 billion to National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Tincan Island Port Strategic Command
In pursuance of the agenda of the Comptroller-General of Customs, the Tincan Island Port Command, of Nigeria Customs Service, under the leadership of Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has made significant operational breakthrough in collaboration with its strategic partner, the NDLEA, Tincan Island Port Strategic Command, which has resulted in the seizures of 185 jumbo bags of cannabis indica.
Comptroller Frank Onyeka, who highlighted the significant achievements of the command, also announced that, following credible intelligence and sustained inter-agency
cooperation, officers of the command, working jointly with personnel of
the NDLEA, conducted a 100% physical examination on a container with
container no. HAMU429966/1, which has been red-flagged from intelligence
gathered.
Official report from Customs said the container which originated from Canada was initially
declared to contain only used vehicles. But, upon thorough
examination it was discovered to contain
185 jumbo bags of cannabis indica concealed with one used 2010 Toyota
Camry and one used 2023 Chevrolet Colorado
Further examination revealed that the seized cannabis indica comprised
9,458 packages, with a total weight of 4,729 kilograms, at the estimated
street value of ₦18,916,000,000.00
Besides, he said this significant seizure demonstrates the vigilance, professionalism,
and dedication of officers, and affirms the strength of the
collaboration with sister agencies.
He formally handed over the illicit drugs to the National Drug
Law Enforcement Agency, for further investigation and prosecution in line
with their statutory mandate.
Still, he said this achievement is particularly significant as it comes shortly after
the historic agreement between the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency
and the Nigeria Customs Service to strengthen inter-agency synergy
against drug trafficking and organized crime.
Furthermore, he pointed out that this framework, which is
already yielding tangible results, was signed on April 27, 2026, at the
NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer,
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Comptroller-General of
Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR PhD.
He noted that as part of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of the agreement,
both agencies are to follow on strengthening inter-agency collaboration
through regular engagements, structured intelligence sharing, and
develop coordinated operational guidelines to ensure seamless
collaboration.
Additionally, he said the agreement establishes that the Headquarter of the
standing inter-agency committee is to be domiciled at the National Drug
Law Enforcement Agency Headquarters, Abuja.
He used this opportunity to express his profound appreciation to
the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR psc(+)
PhD, for his visionary leadership and unwavering support in
strengthening operational capacity and inter-agency collaboration.
Similarly, he also extended his gratitude to the leadership and personnel of the
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, for their professionalism,
cooperation, and dedication to safeguarding our nation from the menace
of illicit drugs.
Still, he thanked the critical stakeholders, including port
operators, security agencies, and members of the media, for
their continuous support and partnership, adding that their role in information
dissemination and public awareness is invaluable.
Indeed, he noted that the Tincan Island Port Command remains resolute in its commitment to
intensifying synergy with all relevant agencies to secure our borders
and ports.
Comptroller Frank Onyeka is quoted as saying that: “We will continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies and
robust enforcement measures to combat smuggling and illicit trade”.
He used the opportunity to sound a clear warning to all smugglers and criminal elements that the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with its
partners, is fully prepared and determined to detect, intercept, and
prosecute all forms of illegal activities.
During the handover ceremony, Comptroller Frank Onyeka announced that there will be no safe haven for economic saboteurs, while reaffirming the command’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s economy, safeguarding public health, and ensuring national security.
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