Western Marine Command Records Major Anti-Smuggling Win with N157.8m Cannabis Seizure
Kathy Kyari
The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has intensified its crackdown on smuggling along Nigeria’s waterways, recording major operational successes that underscore its role in maritime security and trade facilitation.
Addressing journalists on the Command’s recent activities on Wednesday, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, disclosed that officers intercepted a large consignment of illicit drugs during an anti-smuggling operation.
He explained that the Command recorded “yet another major operational feat in its sustained efforts toward safeguarding the nation's maritime domain against illicit activities.”
According to him, officers seized 20 sacks of Cannabis indica with a Duty Paid Value of ₦157,830,000, which were “carefully packed into 1,205 leaves, suspected to have been unlawfully smuggled into the country through the waterways.”
Beyond enforcement, the Controller highlighted the Command’s role in supporting legitimate trade and port efficiency. He noted that the Western Marine Container Seat Team remained critical to cargo movement and compliance within the port system.
“Within the period under review, the team recorded the successful escort of 21,414 containers from the main port in various bonded terminals, ensuring compliance, transparency, and efficient movement of cargo,” he stated.
Ntadi emphasized that the twin achievements of seizure and trade facilitation reflect the Command’s statutory mandate. “These operational achievements reaffirm the unwavering commitment of the Western Marine Command to its statutory responsibilities of revenue protection, border security, and trade facilitation,” he said.
He attributed the successes to leadership support and inter-agency cooperation, noting that “our success is attributable to the motivation given to us from the Controller General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi, enhanced intelligence gathering and improved collaboration with other security agencies like the Nigerian Navy, NDLEA, Marine Police and the Immigration Service.”
Reaffirming the Command’s resolve, Ntadi assured that enforcement efforts would not wane. “I assure you that the Western Marine Command will not relent in its fight against smuggling and illegal activities. We are committed to upholding the laws of our land, protecting our citizens, and ensuring that justice is served.”
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