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Customs Seizes ₦5.3 Billion Worth of Illicit Drugs Concealed in Imported Vehicles at Tin Can Island

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Customs Seizes ₦5.3 Billion Worth of Illicit Drugs Concealed in Imported Vehicles at Tin Can Island

The Nigeria Customs Service, Tin Can Island Port Command, has intercepted two containers laden with imported motor vehicles used to conceal large quantities of illicit drugs valued at over ₦5.3 billion.

The Command made this known during a press briefing held at its headquarters on Friday, October 24, 2025, where the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, described the operation as a demonstration of the Service’s unrelenting commitment to border security and trade compliance.

According to Onyeka, the first container number HLXU8500072, with Bill of Lading Number HLCUTOR2506000834, originated from Montreal, Canada, and was intercepted on September 4, 2025, following credible intelligence and coordinated enforcement.

A 100% physical examination, conducted jointly with other security agencies, revealed four vehicles containing 156 packets of Colorado Indica (a strain of cannabis) weighing 78 kilograms, and 1.2 kilograms of Hashish Oil.

The second container, numbered FANU312876/9, was seized on October 24, 2025, after actionable intelligence led to its inspection. Inside, officers discovered 2,081 packages of Cannabis Indica weighing 1,093 kilogrammes, alongside eight packages of Crystal Methamphetamine (“Meth”) weighing 8 kilogrammes.

In line with inter-agency collaboration protocols, the seized drugs have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

Comptroller Onyeka commended the NDLEA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Navy, and other partner agencies for their cooperation in combating drug trafficking and other transnational crimes. He issued a stern warning to smugglers and criminal networks, stressing that illicit drug trade poses grave threats to national security, public health, and the economy.

“Let it be known that Tin Can Island Port Command, under my watch, remains resolute, vigilant, and uncompromising in enforcing the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all international conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory,” Onyeka stated.

He also urged genuine importers and exporters to strictly adhere to trade regulations and ensure accurate declarations in all documentation, while appreciating the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and his management team for their continuous support.

Receiving the seized items on behalf of the NDLEA, Commander of Narcotics, Tin Can Strategic Command, Commander Daniel Onyishi, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and professionalism, noting that the handover underscores the strong collaboration between both agencies in safeguarding the nation from the scourge of drug trafficking.

Commander Onyishi reaffirmed the NDLEA’s commitment to investigate and dispose of all seized substances in line with legal procedures, while strengthening partnerships with the Customs and other security agencies to achieve a drug-free Nigeria.

Anambra State Refutes Alleged Plans Against Catholic Bishops

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Anambra State Refutes Alleged Plans Against Catholic Bishops

The Anambra State Government has dismissed as false the fake news circulating on social media alleging that Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo plans to arrest and jail Catholic bishops and priests after his re-election in office for a second term.

The State’s Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, in a statement, described the story as false, baseless, and malicious, and that it is a deliberate act of misinformation aimed at causing tension and disrupting the peace in the state.

“This fabrication is clearly the handiwork of shadow opposition groups who have resorted to propaganda due to the collapse of their campaigns. They are advised to focus on their dwindling efforts,” the statement read.

Mefor stated that the state government assured the public, especially the Catholic Church, of which Governor Soludo is a staunch member, and its leaders, that Governor Soludo has no such plans or intentions.

The Commissioner, therefore, reaffirmed the administration’s respect for the rights and freedoms of all citizens, including religious leaders.

He urged the people of the state to disregard the report and always demand virtual evidence before accepting or sharing such inflammatory stories.

Mefor also reiterated the government’s commitment to sustaining its crackdown on fake native doctors, false spiritualists, fake clergymen and women, which has resulted in a campaign known as “Oso Soludo,” which must be sustained.

Furthermore, the state government has strongly affirmed that it will collaborate with the federal government to identify and eliminate certificate forgers from the state.

IGP Welfare Scheme: Lagos CP Presents ₦24.1 Million to Families of Fallen Police Officers

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IGP Welfare Scheme: Lagos CP Presents ₦24.1 Million to Families of Fallen Police Officers

In a gesture of compassion and commitment to officers’ welfare, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has presented cheques worth ₦24,144,997.49 to 22 families of police officers who lost their lives in active service.

The presentation, made on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, is part of the Nigeria Police Force’s Group Life Assurance and IGP Family Welfare Schemes, designed to provide financial relief and sustained support to families of fallen heroes.

According to the Command, the initiative underscores the IGP’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and well-being of police personnel and their dependents. It also reflects his compassionate leadership and determination to ensure that the sacrifices of gallant officers are duly recognized and never forgotten.

Speaking during the presentation, CP Olohundare Jimoh expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police for his continuous dedication to officers’ welfare and for initiating thoughtful interventions that restore hope to bereaved families.

He noted that such gestures not only boost the morale of serving officers but also reaffirm that their dedication to public safety is valued and honoured.

While extending condolences to the families of the deceased officers, the Commissioner of Police prayed for God’s comfort and strength for them, assuring that the Lagos State Command holds the memory of the fallen heroes in high esteem.

He urged the beneficiaries to take solace in the noble legacies left behind by their loved ones who paid the supreme price in the service of humanity.

CAC Adenuga Lamments Effects of Multiple CheckPoints on Trade Facilitation

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CAC Adenuga Lamments Effects of Multiple CheckPoints on Trade Facilitation

The Area Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Seme Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, has expressed concern over the proliferation of checkpoints along the Lagos Badagry corridor, describing them as detrimental to trade facilitation.

He made this known during a courtesy visit by the executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council to Seme Command on Wednesday.

While receiving the NUJ delegation, Adenuga described the numerous checkpoints as a major obstacle to seamless trade, warning that the situation could discourage genuine business transactions within the region.

“I want to categorically state that we have far too many checkpoints operated by various security agencies along the Badagry axis. Most of these checkpoints should not exist in the first place.

“This development is quite embarrassing and could have serious negative implications for the country’s economy. The business community may begin to shy away from trading with Nigeria due to these unnecessary bottlenecks,” Adenuga said.

He further emphasized that beyond trade, Badagry is a location rich in history and tourism potential, both of which could serve as additional revenue streams for the country if properly harnessed.

According to him, only two official checkpoints; Gbagi and Agbara are recognized by the Customs management, while the others are illegal and counterproductive.

Adenuga also reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to enhancing revenue generation and reducing smuggling to its barest minimum.

He revealed that under his leadership, the Command generated about ₦1.5 billion as revenue last month, representing a 182 per cent increase.

The comptroller added that the Command is on track to generate close to ₦2 billion for the month of October.

He stressed the need for sustained public enlightenment to educate Nigerians and business operators on the negative impact of multiple checkpoints, particularly how they contributed to increased prices of goods.

Describing the NUJ’s visit as a morale booster, Adenuga noted that such engagements offered an opportunity to showcase achievements and identify areas needing improvement.

In response, the NUJ Chairman, Mr Adeleye Ajayi, described the visit as a home-coming.

Ajayi commended the achievements of the Seme Command and lauded the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service.

“I bring greetings from over 7,000 journalists in Lagos State. We commend the Nigeria Customs Service at the Seme Border, Badagry, for its dedication, professionalism and the remarkable strides it is making toward securing our borders and facilitating legitimate trade.

“We also confirm that we saw multiple checkpoints along the Badagry-Seme corridor and this must be looked into urgently.

“Your efforts in combating smuggling, increasing revenue and promoting cross-border cooperation are truly commendable. You have set a standard of excellence, and we appreciate your contributions to national development and security,” he said.

He described the Seme Border as one of Nigeria’s most strategic trade gateways and lauded the Customs officers stationed there for their consistency and resilience in the face of challenges.

“Despite the high traffic at this post, the Customs officers continue to demonstrate professionalism. Their enhanced surveillance systems, improved inspection protocols, and adherence to global best practices have contributed significantly to curbing smuggling and illicit trade,” the NUJ Chairman said.

Ajayi further commended the Command’s role in revenue generation, noting that their commitment to accurate valuation, proper documentation and curbing revenue leakages had significantly contributed to Nigeria’s economic stability.

On security, he emphasized the role of the Customs Service in safeguarding the nation’s borders, intercepting contraband, arms and other dangerous goods, as well as collaborating effectively with other security agencies to combat transnational crimes such as human and drug trafficking.

As part of the visit, Ajayi was presented with a plaque by the comptroller in recognition of his contributions to national development.

Other members of the NUJ delegation included Philip Nwosu (Vice Chairman), Tunde Olalere (Secretary), Olayide Awosanya (Assistant Secretary), Oluwakemi Ishola (Internal Auditor), Alaba Igbaroola (Ex-Officio) and Gbenga Faile (Chairman, Lagos NUJ Media Investment Committee).

Customs Unveils Digital Vehicle Verification System to Curb Smuggling, Enhance Transparency

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Customs Unveils Digital Vehicle Verification System to Curb Smuggling, Enhance Transparency

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS has launched a new digital verification platform designed to curb vehicle smuggling, enhance transparency, and strengthen accountability in the automobile importation process.

The initiative, known as the Customs Verification Management System, CVMS, was officially unveiled on Monday, 20 October 2025, at the NCS Headquarters in Abuja by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.

Speaking at the launch, CGC Adeniyi described the initiative as a milestone in the Service’s ongoing modernisation agenda, noting that it closes long-standing loopholes in the vehicle clearance process.

“For years, verification of imported vehicles relied on fragmented and outdated methods that left room for misinformation, fraud, and revenue leakages. The launch of this system is another score on the board for our bold transformation agenda.” CGC Adeniyi said.

He explained that the CVMS was developed in collaboration with the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP) and local technical experts to provide a secure and transparent verification process accessible to all Nigerians.

According to him, the digital platform will significantly reduce the circulation of smuggled and improperly cleared vehicles while boosting government revenue.

He said, “This new solution empowers the public and strengthens the integrity of our Service by promoting transparency, accountability, and trust.”

CGC Adeniyi added, “Anyone who invests millions of naira in a vehicle would not hesitate to pay N15,000 to verify its authenticity and ensure their investment is protected.”

The Customs chief noted that payments can be made using any valid card issued by financial institutions in Nigeria or abroad, with verification results generated instantly.

He further explained that the platform creates a centralised database through which vehicle details can be traced, verified, and confirmed within minutes, improving operational efficiency across Customs formations and enhancing inter-agency coordination.

CGC Adeniyi stated that the CVMS is part of the Service’s broader digital reform strategy, aimed at simplifying clearance procedures, promoting data-driven operations, and increasing transparency in revenue collection.

“In essence, this system brings openness to an area that was previously shrouded in uncertainty and manipulation. Across all our operations, we are deploying innovative, technology-driven solutions to simplify processes and boost transparency.” He emphasised.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Trade Modernisation Project, Dr. Jummai Umar-Ajijola, the Managing Director of TMP, commended the Customs boss for his steadfast commitment to actualising the CVMS initiative.

She praised the leadership of the Comptroller-General for championing reforms that position the Nigeria Customs Service as a forward-thinking institution, saying, “The TMP will continue to support the Service in achieving its vision for modernization and ICT-driven advancement.”

Dr. Umar-Ajijola reaffirmed the Project’s partnership with Customs, adding that the CVMS represents a bold step in leveraging technology to improve revenue generation, efficiency, and stakeholder confidence.

In his remarks, the National President of the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON), Ajibola Adedoyin, commended the initiative and assured that his members would key into the system after conducting an independent assessment.

“I can assure you that once the benefits are clear, the first people to adopt this initiative, 90 per cent of them, will be our members.” Adedoyin said.

The CVMS launch marks another significant step in the NCS’s transformation drive, reinforcing its commitment to accountability, innovation, and public trust in Nigeria’s trade and transport ecosystem.

The system introduces a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)-based verification process, enabling individuals, importers, and car dealers to confirm the authenticity, origin, and duty payment status of vehicles in real-time

LAGOS EXAMINATIONS BOARD COMPLETES 2025 TRADE TEST

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LAGOS EXAMINATIONS BOARD COMPLETES 2025 TRADE TEST

The Lagos State Examinations Board has concluded the year 2025 Trade Test across designated centres in the State, with adequate monitoring and supervision of the exercise.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, joined the monitoring team in the company of the Registrar/Director, Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Orunsolu Adebayo, to ensure compliance with the State Government’s standards of transparency, fairness, and excellence and observed practical aspects of the test in trades like Tailoring, Hairdressing, Catering, Graphics Design, among others.

In her remark, Mrs. Dokunmu-Adegbite affirmed commended the Board for efficient coordination and professionalism. She praised artisans’ dedication, stressing vocational skills as central to the State’s youth empowerment, job creation, economic growth and urged candidates to stay diligent and committed to improvement.

“Trade Test certification boosts technical competence and opens local and international labour market opportunities”, she enthused

On his part, Registrar/Director, Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Orunsolu Adebayo appreciated the Permanent Secretary’s presence and guidance, which also motivated the Board and participants. He reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and service in all exams.

The 2025 Trade Test underscores Lagos State Government’s commitment to promoting technical and vocational education for a skilled, self-reliant workforce.

LASAA Hosts Legislative Delegation, Re-Commits to Visual Order, Safety

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LASAA Hosts Legislative Delegation, Re-Commits to Visual Order, Safety

The Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency, LASAA recently welcomed a high-powered delegation from the house committee on environment of the Lagos State House of Assembly, led by its Chairman, Honourable Shabi Rasheed Adekola.

The visit served as a statutory oversight function, providing a critical platform for detailed engagement on the agency’s performance and regulatory adherence.

The LASAA management team, headed by the Managing Director/CEO, Prince Fatiu Akiolu, engaged the Committee in extensive discussions that spanned the agency’s activities, its performance metrics and compliance with regulatory responsibilities.

The meeting fostered productive conversations focusing on strategic policies and ongoing projects aimed at developing an organised, safe and visually appealing outdoor advertising space across the state.

Prince Akiolu seized the opportunity to express his profound gratitude to the Committee for their time, unwavering support and valuable guidance.

“We are deeply committed to upholding best practices in outdoor advertising regulation,” Prince Akiolu stated. “LASAA’s mission is to contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development of Lagos State’s visual environment, a goal we pursue rigorously for the benefit of all residents and visitors.”

In his remarks, Honourable Shabi Rasheed Adekola delivered a glowing assessment of LASAA’s operational efficiency. He particularly praised the agency’s efforts in maintaining a cleaner and safer Lagos through effective signage control and regulation under Prince Akiolu’s leadership.

The Chairman underscored the non-negotiable need for sustained cooperation between the legislature and all government agencies to guarantee efficient service delivery and accountability.

“We recognise LASAA’s vital role in keeping Lagos clean and safe,” Honourable Adekola stated. “This partnership between the legislature and government agencies is essential for ensuring service delivery and accountability that aligns perfectly with the agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.”

Honourable Adekola also issued a call to action, urging LASAA to intensify its efforts in public sensitization. He explained that engaging the public on the agency’s core mandate is crucial for ensuring continuous compliance and maximizing revenue potential.

Crucially, he reinforced the need for LASAA to reassure the public that the state’s outdoor advertising structures are maintained with “utmost integrity,” guaranteeing their safety.

The oversight visit successfully affirmed the shared commitment of both the legislature and LASAA to promoting transparency, efficiency and innovation within the public service, thereby enhancing the quality of life in Lagos State.

Advocates Raise Alarm on Targeting of Nigerian Students with Nicotine Products by Foreign, Local Groups

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Advocates Raise Alarm on Targeting of Nigerian Students with Nicotine Products by Foreign, Local Groups

A coalition of tobacco control advocates has raised alarm over what it described as a coordinated campaign by local and foreign interests to promote nicotine-based products among Nigerian youth under the guise of “harm reduction education.”

In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, the Nigerian Tobacco Control Alliance, NTCA, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA, and Gatefield called on the Federal Government and health authorities to take urgent action against the clandestine marketing of these products, which they say threatens to undermine years of progress in tobacco control and public health.

The groups alleged that a Sweden-based organisation, in collaboration with local tobacco industry fronts, is introducing nicotine pouches, vapes, and heated tobacco devices to Nigerian students through campaigns branded as harm-reduction initiatives.

“Nigeria cannot be a dumping ground for these rejected products,” the organisations declared. “The government has a duty to protect citizens from this dangerous tactic.”

They noted that at least 43 countries have banned nicotine vaping products, while 26 others prohibit heated tobacco products due to health risks, unethical marketing, and the rising threat of youth addiction.

According to the statement, the groups’ concern follows a recent event in Abuja allegedly organised by a “harm reduction group” from Sweden, which they described as an attempt to derail Nigeria’s tobacco control laws. The event reportedly promoted the “Quit Like Sweden” model while simultaneously marketing nicotine products to the public as safer alternatives.

Executive Director of CAPPA, Akinbode Oluwafemi, dismissed claims that such products are safer or beneficial for smokers trying to quit, insisting there is “no safe level of nicotine.”

“These groups are marketing nicotine pouches, vapes and heated tobacco devices as harm-reducing or safer alternatives, and that is a dangerous lie that fuels a youth addiction crisis right here at home,” Oluwafemi said.

Citing data from the World Health Organization (WHO), he said at least 15 million children aged 13 to 15 are already addicted to e-cigarettes globally, adding that “children are nine times more likely than adults to vape.”

“This is the so-called ‘smoke-free future’ the industry envisions, one that sustains a steady pipeline of young addicts to replace those killed or harmed by tobacco and nicotine products,” he added.

Oluwafemi urged the government to take decisive measures to eliminate youth access to nicotine products, warning that “harm is harm; there is no safe level of poison.”

NTCA Alliance Coordinator, Olawale Makanjuola, stressed that Nigeria already has a comprehensive legal framework capable of addressing the challenge if properly implemented.

“We have the tools: strong taxation, comprehensive advertising bans, plain packaging, strict age verification, and well-funded cessation support. What’s needed is political will,” he said.

Makanjuola accused industry-backed programmes of using “educational” campaigns in schools to normalise nicotine use, calling them “Trojan horses disguised as public health initiatives.”

Also speaking, Omei Bongos-Ikwue, Health Communications, Policy and Advocacy Specialist at Gatefield, said the tobacco industry is merely rebranding its image to appeal to young people.

“The industry does not seek to eradicate tobacco and nicotine, but to dress itself in packaging that attracts its most important market, the youth,” she said. “As a party to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), Nigeria must protect public health policies from the industry’s commercial interests.”

The organisations urged parents, guardians, and schools to remain vigilant as nicotine products increasingly infiltrate local markets and social spaces, warning that failure to act could expose the country to a new public health crisis.

“Nigeria must align with global best practices and develop home-grown public health solutions that reflect our realities, not copy narratives from countries where nicotine addiction is already entrenched,” the statement said.

They concluded that only strong enforcement and proactive public health education can prevent a new generation of Nigerians from falling prey to nicotine addiction marketed as a lifestyle trend.

LASUBEB Honours Retiring Primary School Staff

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LASUBEB Honours Retiring Primary School Staff

The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, LASUBEB, has celebrated its retiring and retired public primary school teaching and non-teaching staff for their years of dedicated service to the State’s education sector.

The event, held at the LASUBEB Multipurpose Hall in Maryland, was tagged “Celebration of Last Day in Office and Post Service Champions.”

Board Secretary, Mr. Hakeem Lamidi, while welcoming the celebrants, commended their commitment and contributions to the growth of education in Lagos State, wishing them success in their future endeavours.

Goodwill messages were also delivered by Dr. (Mrs.) Sherifat Adedoyin of the Project Monitoring and Basic Education Quality Assurance Department, Hon. Babatunde Jimoh, Permanent Board Member in charge of Co-Curricular, and Mrs. Bukonla Durodola, Director, Post Service Unit.

They applauded the retirees for their selfless service and encouraged them to take advantage of post-retirement programmes introduced by the State Government, including health and wellness initiatives.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Board Chairman, Permanent Board Member, O.J. Falana, congratulated the retirees and described the celebration as a worthy recognition of their hard work and dedication.

The colourful ceremony featured music performances, dancing, and the presentation of certificates, culminating in the cutting of a celebration cake amid cheers and excitement.

Comptroller Oshoba Charges Newly Promoted Officers On Innovation, Integrity

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Apapa Customs Sets New National Revenue Record With ₦304bn in October

The Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, has charged newly promoted Deputy and Assistant Comptrollers of Customs to embrace innovation, integrity, and continuous learning as they assume higher responsibilities within the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS.

Speaking at the opening session of a special training session organized for the newly elevated officers on Wednesday, Comptroller Oshoba congratulated the participants on their career advancement, describing their promotions as both “a reward for hard work and a call to greater service.”

He emphasized that the new ranks come with increased expectations from the Service and the nation, urging the officers to exhibit excellence, discipline, and commitment to the modernization vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

“These elevations come with benefits, challenges, and responsibilities. The management of the NCS demands more commitment, innovative thinking, and an unwavering dedication to excellence in carrying out the CGC’s reform agenda.”

Highlighting the Service’s transformation drive, the Apapa CAC noted that Customs operations have become more knowledge-driven, with modernization initiatives such as the Advance Ruling System, Time Release Study, Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme, and the One Stop Shop mechanism redefining trade facilitation in Nigeria.

He tasked the newly promoted officers to familiarize themselves with these tools and deploy them effectively to enhance efficiency, compliance, and risk management.

“There are cases of non-compliance, either from ignorance or deliberate circumvention of procedures. This calls for greater alertness and the smart use of technology for risk assessment,” Oshoba warned.

While urging participants to leverage the training for professional development, he encouraged them to interact, exchange ideas, and build networks that will strengthen teamwork and leadership capacity across commands.

“As new leaders, some of you will be entrusted with sensitive duties, including custodianship of release passwords and supervision of junior officers,” he added. “You must uphold the tenets of Justice and Honesty, which are core values of the Service.”

Oshoba assured that capacity building remains a priority for the Service under the current leadership, with continuous training and retraining forming part of the long-term strategy for institutional excellence.

“To the glory of God and for the benefit of participants and facilitators, I hereby declare this course open,” he concluded.

The training session, hosted at the Apapa Area Command headquarters, aims to equip the newly promoted officers with advanced knowledge and leadership skills essential for driving Customs modernization and effective trade facilitation.

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