The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intensified its fight against international drug trafficking after intercepting illicit drug consignments valued at about ₦10 billion at the Lagos ports, in a major operation aimed at blocking criminal networks from using Nigeria as a transit route.
The agency disclosed that the seizures were made through intelligence-led operations involving its officers at strategic entry points, where large quantities of prohibited substances were discovered and prevented from entering local markets or being exported abroad.
Among the substances intercepted were cocaine, loud, opioids and other dangerous drugs, with NDLEA officials describing the seizures as one of the significant breakthroughs recorded in recent operations at the nation’s maritime gateways.
The agency said the discovery highlights the growing efforts of its operatives to monitor international supply chains and stop drug cartels attempting to move illegal substances through Nigeria’s ports.
NDLEA operatives also uncovered a cocaine shipment concealed in cartons prepared for export, leading to the arrest of individuals suspected to be involved in the movement of the consignment.
According to the agency, the suspects attempted to exploit legitimate cargo channels to transport the illegal substance outside Nigeria, but improved surveillance and intelligence gathering enabled officers to detect the hidden drugs.
The latest interception comes amid renewed concerns over the increasing activities of international drug syndicates seeking to use Nigerian routes for the movement of narcotics.
NDLEA officials said the agency has continued to strengthen collaboration with other security and border control agencies to improve screening procedures and prevent criminal groups from taking advantage of Nigeria’s ports.
The anti-narcotics agency warned that drug trafficking remains a serious threat to public health, national security and the wellbeing of young Nigerians, adding that anyone involved in the illegal trade would face prosecution.
Experts have repeatedly linked the availability of illicit drugs to rising social problems, including addiction, youth vulnerability and involvement in criminal activities.
The NDLEA assured Nigerians that operations would continue across airports, seaports, highways and communities to dismantle drug trafficking networks and reduce the circulation of dangerous substances.
The agency urged members of the public to support the fight against drug abuse by providing credible information that can assist security operatives in identifying traffickers and their activities.
With the latest seizure, authorities say Nigeria’s ports remain under increased surveillance as efforts continue to prevent the country from becoming a safe haven for international drug cartels.