The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has officially taken control of 6,778.5 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a strong type of cannabis. This was intercepted at Apapa Seaport in Lagos.
The drugs were handed over to the NDLEA during a ceremony at Apapa Port on Wednesday. This followed a joint examination of two containers by NDLEA operatives, Nigeria Customs Service, and other security agencies.
A statement from the agency’s spokesman, Femi Babafemi, shared that the NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), represented by the Director of Seaport Operations, ACGN Ibinabo Archie-Abia, called the seizure a big achievement made possible by teamwork among agencies.
“Through two major seizures recorded on June 15 and June 24, 2026, we send a clear and unequivocal message that we are more determined than ever to dismantle organized criminal syndicates and drug trafficking networks operating within and beyond our borders,” Marwa said.
He noted that the seizures came after months of intelligence-led operations by the NDLEA Special Investigation Unit and the Marine Intelligence Unit. They worked with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Nigeria Customs Service.
Marwa explained that international drug syndicates used complicated maritime routes to avoid security agencies. However, consistent surveillance helped operatives track the drugs across different continents before they were intercepted in Nigeria.
“It bears stating clearly how these consignments moved. The first container, CAAU 7569127, left Toronto on April 16, 2026. In a bid to avoid detection, it was moved by rail to Montreal before being loaded onto the vessel Ghallow Express. It reached Tangier Med, Morocco, on May 6, 2026, where it was transferred to the Spartel Trader. This ship docked at Tin Can Island Port on May 27, 2026.
“It was then moved to the Global Bonded Terminal before being transported by water to Apapa Port on June 10, 2026. It was intercepted during a joint examination of the shipment by our officers, Customs Service, and other security agencies,” he said.
Marwa mentioned that the second container, HAMU 3246311, departed Montreal on May 1 aboard the vessel Africa Express. It was then transferred to the Algeciras Express on May 15.
“It arrived at Tin Can Island Port and, after being discharged on June 4, 2026, was moved to Apapa Port on June 22, 2026. That is where our officers intercepted it,” he added.
The NDLEA boss highlighted that the agency would go beyond just seizing drugs. They aim to target the financial networks behind drug trafficking.
“We recognize that the huge profits from drug trafficking continue to support crimes against humanity and our nation. This happens despite the serious impact they have on individuals, families, and communities.
“Because of this, we are determined. Our job does not end with seizure. We will identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible. We will also confiscate their criminal assets to ensure they get no benefits from their illegal activities,” he said.
Marwa praised the NDLEA officers, Nigeria Customs Service, and other security agencies for their hard work and professionalism.
“I commend, in the strongest terms, the dedication, professionalism, and courage of the officers and men of the NDLEA, Nigeria Customs Service, and all other security agencies. They refused to look away and let these dangerous substances enter our communities.
“Your patriotism and commitment have proven that you are effective guardians of our maritime gateways.
“This success was made possible by the intelligence-sharing and operational teamwork from every agency involved. It shows what can be achieved through collaboration, international cooperation, and intelligence-driven operations against organized crime and drug trafficking,” he said.
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