Nigeria Customs seizes N1bn drug shipment bound for South-East

The Nigeria Customs Service intercepted over one million tramadol tablets and 10,000 bottles of Codeine syrup concealed in a commercial truck on a Benin City highway, in what authorities say was part of a cartel’s distribution network targeting the South-East.

The seizure, valued at N1.056 billion, was made by the Federal Operations Unit Zone C, Owerri, during an intelligence-led operation on the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Edo State. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled when stopped.

Bishir Balogun, comptroller of FOU Zone C, said the drugs were “cleverly concealed among legitimate goods to beat security checks.” He added that the operation reflected the service’s focus on disrupting pharmaceutical smuggling networks that feed drug abuse across the region.

Related News

Trafficking of prescription opioids, particularly Tramadol and Codeine, have fuelled substance abuse and crime in parts of southern Nigeria.

Authorities have intensified seizures in recent years as trafficking routes have shifted inland from ports.

Balogun said the Service employs “intelligence-led strategies” to curb the spread.

Investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the shipment. The drugs remain in customs custody, and are expected to be handed over to the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Bethel Olujobi

Bethel Olujobi reports on trade and maritime business for BusinessDay with prior experience reporting on migration, labour, and tech. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from the University of Jos, and is certified by the FT, Reuters and Google. Drawing from his experience working with other respected news providers, he presents a nuanced and informed perspective on the complexities of critical matters. He is based in Lagos, Nigeria and occasionally commutes to Abuja.