The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Tuesday announced that its officers had seized 481 loaves of cannabis sativa, 72 bundles of foreign textiles, seven bags of sugar, four locally constructed fibre boats, and five locally constructed wooden boats across the Lagos waterways.
Addressing newsmen on Tuesday, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, explained that the seizures had a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦352 million.
According to Ntadi, the recent operation was part of the Command’s continuous efforts to safeguard the nation’s borders, protect the economy, and uphold the rule of law.
He emphasized that security lapses can no longer be taken lightly, especially at a time when Nigeria is grappling with multiple security challenges.
He noted that over the past few weeks, the Command’s officers, known for their discipline and dedication, had carried out a series of targeted operations along maritime routes.
These efforts led to the interception of several illegal shipments and smuggled goods, which pose serious threats to the country’s economic stability and social well-being.
Among the seized items were 2,017 bags of foreign parboiled rice, valued at ₦212 million; seven sacks of 50kg sugar, valued at ₦672,000; seventy-two rolls of foreign plain textile material, with a DPV of ₦71 million; and 481 loaves of cannabis sativa, with a DPV of ₦50 million.
In addition, nine boats — comprising both fibre and wooden constructions — were confiscated and valued at ₦17 million. Altogether, these seizures amount to a DPV of ₦352 million.
Ntadi stated that this marks a significant blow to criminal networks engaged in smuggling and illegal trade, and it demonstrates the Command’s commitment to ensuring that only lawful commerce thrives within the country.
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