Apapa Customs Seize 3.39bn Codeine Shipment at Lagos Port

Samira Usman Adam
Samira Usman Adam - Presenter/PR & Partnership Lead
1 Min Read

The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted codeine-based syrup valued at ₦3.39 billion at Apapa Port.

The seizure was carried out by the Apapa Area Command during a joint operation with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

Customs officials said the interception occurred on March 15, 2026 during a targeted inspection of two containers.

The containers were flagged through intelligence gathering by enforcement officers.

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Authorities discovered 3,398 cartons containing 339,800 bottles of codeine syrup concealed inside the shipments.

Officials said the goods were falsely declared as household utensils.

The illicit consignment had a Duty Paid Value of about ₦3.39 billion.

Customs Area Controller Emmanuel Oshoba confirmed the seizure.

He said the operation reflects the command’s commitment to enforcing directives from Adewale Adeniyi.

Oshoba added that the seizure followed recent warnings issued to smugglers operating through the port.

He stressed that Apapa Port will remain hostile to drug traffickers and smuggling networks.

Customs also commended NDLEA for its collaboration during the operation.

Officials said the partnership between agencies helped ensure the successful interception.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and safeguarding national security.

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Samira Usman Adam is a multimedia journalist, PR practitioner, and communication strategist with over a decade of experience in media and community engagement. Her work focuses on storytelling, digital innovation, and strategic communication that drives social impact. She is passionate about empowering young people, amplifying underrepresented voices, and building platforms that strengthen media practice and leadership across communities.