Customs seizes 3,398 cartons of codeine syrup at Apapa Port

By Joy Enamuna 

Just three days after the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, declared that Apapa Port would no longer serve as a haven for smugglers, the Nigeria Customs Service recorded another major breakthrough.

The Apapa Area Command, under the leadership of Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, intercepted two containers carrying a total of 3,398 cartons—equivalent to 339,800 bottles—of Codeine-containing syrup. The contraband, disguised in household utensils, was seized on Sunday, March 15, 2026, during a joint operation with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The duty-paid value of the seizure was estimated at ₦3.398 billion. Details revealed that Container No. MRKU 3816476 contained 1,700 cartons hidden among 38 pearl-plated insulated casseroles, while Container No. TGBU 5399178 carried 1,698 cartons concealed with 36 similar items. Both containers have been officially converted to seizure under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, as amended.

Comptroller Oshoba said the operation demonstrated the command’s commitment to the directives of the CGC. “This fresh seizure, coming just five days after the CGC’s visit and strong warning to criminal elements, reflects our dedication to intelligence-led enforcement. Apapa Port will remain hostile to smugglers and drug traffickers,” he said.

He also commended the NDLEA for their close collaboration and professionalism, which contributed to the success of the operation.

Comptroller Oshoba reaffirmed that the Apapa Area Command is committed to protecting public health, safeguarding national security, and facilitating legitimate trade, in line with the CGC’s push for technology-driven operations and zero tolerance for smuggling.