The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has intercepted a massive consignment of tramadol valued at over ₦8.6 billion at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The seizure, made on Saturday, April 5, 2025, was officially unveiled during a press briefing held on Monday, April 7, at the Cargo Terminal of the airport. The Customs Area Controller, FCT Command, Comptroller Olumide Adebisi, led the inspection of the illicit pharmaceutical products, which were concealed and smuggled under false declarations.
Addressing journalists, Comptroller Adebisi decried the actions of individuals who continue to traffic illicit substances under the guise of legitimate trade.
“It is deeply troubling that some unpatriotic elements are determined to flood our communities with dangerous drugs simply for profit, even if it costs lives,” he said.
He noted that such substances often find their way into the hands of terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups threatening national security.
The Comptroller disclosed that the Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the intercepted tramadol stood at ₦8,654,800,000. He assured that the NCS, under his watch, remained committed to disrupting all forms of smuggling activities in and around the FCT.
Comptroller Adebisi also commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the strategic support and operational leverage that have boosted enforcement capabilities within the Command.
“In line with the strong institutional synergy championed by the Comptroller-General, we have secured approval to transfer the seized items to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA),” he added.
The intercepted cargo was officially handed over to the NDLEA Commandant at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, CN Muhammad Jidda, in the presence of officials from other sister security agencies.
Receiving the consignment, Commandant Jidda praised the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and unwavering collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking.
“What we’re witnessing today is a model example of inter-agency cooperation,The tramadol you see here would have caused incalculable harm to our communities had it found its way to the streets.”Jidda said.
He assured that the NDLEA would carry out a thorough investigation to trace the origin and destination of the consignment and ensure prosecution of those involved.
This latest interception mark another major success in the collaborative efforts between the NCS and NDLEA in curbing the illicit drug trade and its links to insecurity across Nigeria.
