Grimaldi Clarifies Position on Sale of Shipping Containers, Customs Duty Responsibility
Lagos, June 3, 2026, Grimaldi Agency of Nigeria, has issued a clarification regarding recent reports on the sale of empty shipping containers by Grimaldi Deep Sea S.p.A.
The Management of Grimaldi made this known in a statement released on Wednesday, the agency addressed claims that the seller was responsible for customs duties after the sale.
Grimaldi said those claims were inaccurate and contradict the agreed terms of sale.
Grimaldi also denied reports that it sold 2,500 empty containers, described that figure was false and not supported by any facts.
According to Grimaldi Agency Nigeria, only a few empty containers were involved in the transaction, not thousands as reported in some outlets.
The agency explained that the containers were sold strictly in their international customs status, adding that it was commonly called a “foreign customs position”.
The statement said that the status means the containers were not transferred as domesticated equipment and they were not intended for permanent local use within Nigeria.
Grimaldi said the buyer was fully informed of these conditions before the transaction was completed.
The company said that in terms of the sale were clearly outlined in the documentation provided to the purchaser while the invoice expressly stated the customs status and responsibilities of each party.
“Based on those terms, Grimaldi maintained that liability for customs duties and any domestication process rests with the buyer, not the seller.
“The agency thereby urging media outlets and stakeholders to verify facts before publication to avoid misleading the public about its operations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that s maritime trade consultant, Mr Okey Ibeke, had on Monday called on the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to review the planned disposal of more than 2,500 empty shipping containers reportedly being handled by Grimaldi Nigeria.
He said the review would help ensure full compliance with customs procedures guiding temporary importation and conversion of shipping containers for local use. (NAN)
All is set for the 2026 edition of the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria Dockworkers’ Day. The event holds tomorrow, Thursday, June 4, at Rockview Hotels, Apapa, Lagos.
Key maritime stakeholders are expected to lead discussions on sustainability and workers’ welfare in the nation’s ports. The conversation will focus on building a port system that works better for both operations and people.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, will be in attendance. He will be joined by immediate past President-General of MWUN, Adewale Adeyanju, and President of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Alhaji Aminu Umar, among other industry leaders.
The programme commences at 10:00 a.m. with the theme “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers.” It will center on environmentally responsible port operations, improved efficiency, and better welfare for dockworkers across Nigerian seaports.
According to the SCAN President, Mr Moses Ebosele, the annual programme aligns Nigeria’s port industry with global sustainability standards.
Ebosele said the goal is to prepare dockworkers for the transition to greener, technology-driven maritime operations.
The association president, described Dockworkers’ Day as more than an event adding that It is a platform for recognising the vital contributions of dockworkers to national economic growth and addressing challenges facing the maritime workforce.
“SCAN Dockworkers’ Day serves as a platform to acknowledge the essential contributions of dockworkers to our economy, while also addressing the urgent need for sustainable practices in our ports,” Ebosele said.
He said that Alhaji Aminu Umar, is expected to deliver the keynote address while Adewale Adeyanju, who also serves as National Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, will chair the event.
Goodwill messages are expected from the Managing Director, Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Director General Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Executive Secretary, Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC), Acting Managing Director, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and other notable stakeholders within the maritime sector.
SCAN president has called on government agencies, shipping companies, freight forwarders, terminal operators, and other industry players to participate actively.
Ebosele said the stakeholders’ collaboration is key to building a more sustainable and worker-friendly port environment.
L-R, Comptroller Joe Anani receiving the baton from Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Frank Onyeka, in Lagos
Tin-Can Customs records N1.61tr under Onyeka leadership
A cross session of officers and stakeholders during the handing handing over ceremony held on Friday in Lagos
May 23, 2026(Lagos) Immediate past Customs Area Controller, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin-Can Island Port Command, Assistant Comptroller-General Frank Onyeka, has handed over leadership of the command after recording revenue collection of N1.609 trillion in 2025.
Left, the Public Relations Officer of the Tincan Island customs command, Mr Oscar Ivara, officiating the handing over ceremony held in Lagos on Friday
The Public Relations Officer of the command, Mr Oscar Ivara, confirmed this in a statement made available on Saturday in Lagos, following Onyeka’s elevation to the rank of Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs.
L-R, Comptroller Joe Anani receiving the command Blueprint from Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Frank Onyeka, in Lagos
Onyeka said the command exceeded its 2025 revenue target of N1.524 trillion, describing his tenure as one of the most fulfilling periods of his career in the service.
He formally handed over to Comptroller Joe Anani, who previously served as Customs Area Controller at Ports and Terminal Multiservices Ltd.
“This moment is both emotional and historic for me. Serving as the Customs Area Controller of this great command has been one of the greatest honours of my career,” Onyeka said.
He disclosed that under his leadership, the command generated N1.60 trillion in 2025, surpassing its target, and also recorded N401.01 billion in the first quarter of 2026.
Onyeka attributed the performance to discipline, intelligence-driven operations, improved compliance measures, stakeholder engagement, and the deployment of modern trade facilitation tools.
Beyond revenue, he said the command recorded significant anti-smuggling successes, including seizures of illicit drugs and prohibited goods valued at over N35 billion.
“These seizures underscore our collective resolve to protect the nation from criminal networks and safeguard public health and security,” he said.
He also noted strengthened collaboration with port stakeholders, including freight forwarders, terminal operators, shipping companies, importers and exporters, aimed at improving efficiency and compliance.
According to him, staff capacity development was prioritised through training, workshops and professional development programmes to enhance operational effectiveness.
“I believe that the strength of any institution lies in the quality and preparedness of its personnel,” he said.
Onyeka further acknowledged support for the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), noting their humanitarian contributions to families and surrounding communities.
He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adeniyi, for his leadership and support, and thanked the media and stakeholders for their cooperation during his tenure.
He urged continued collaboration with the incoming management, stressing that unity and continuity were key to sustaining the command’s performance.
Comptroller Joseph Anani passing the baton to Assistant Comptroller Nura Ibrahim Miko at the PTML Command ceremony
Miko takes over PTML Command, pledges integrity, faster trade facilitation
May 26, 2026(LAGOS) The Deputy Comptroller, (DC) Nura Miko has resumed as the Acting Controller of PTML Command, promising integrity, due process, and seamless trade facilitation for all officers and stakeholders.
The Customs Public Relations Officer, PTML Command, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Abubakar made this known in as statement in Lagos on Tuesday.
He succeeded Comptroller Joseph Anani, who revealed that the command collected over N181 billion in revenue before handing over to the new leadership.
Miko assured officers and stakeholders to work collaboratively, stressing integrity, trade facilitation, due process, teamwork, and results through cooperation, not fear.
According to the new controller, PTML is well-organised and pledged to build on his predecessor’s achievements while strengthening inter-agency synergy and national security commitment.
He affirmed the command remained open to constructive engagement, ensuring transparency, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all stakeholders in port operations.
Miko thanked Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Bashir Adeniyi, for the trust, vowing to uphold Innovation, Consolidation, and Collaboration as they advance PTML’s next chapter.
Anani, now posted to Tin Can Island, called his eight months at PTML an extraordinary privilege and highlighted key modernization milestones achieved.
Comptroller Joseph Anani handing over the command blueprint to Assistant Comptroller Nura Ibrahim Miko at the PTML Command ceremony
He noted consolidating the B’Odogwu system, improving enforcement, and achieving one-hour clearance for compliant vehicle imports through collective dedication and resilience.
Nurudeen Abdul-Kadiri, Chief Imam of Alhaja Sideeqat Ahmad Megida Central Mosque, Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos, after slaughtering ram on Wednesday to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir
Eid-el-Kabir: Cleric urges leaders to make sacrifices
May 27, 2026 Nurudeen Abdul-Kadiri, Chief Imam of Sideeqat Ahmad Megida Central Mosque, Ikorodu, has urged Nigerian leaders to make more sacrifices for the wellbeing of the masses.
Abdul-Kadiri made the call on Wednesday after prayers at the mosque’s praying ground shortly after slaughtering a ram to celebrate 2026 Eid-el-Kabir.
The cleric said that if Nigerians in positions of authority would make more sacrifices, Nigeria would be better and Allah would reward their faithfulness.
Some Muslims at the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration at Alhaja Sideeqat Ahmad Megida Mosque, Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos, on Wednesday
“If we make sacrifices for the sake of Almighty Allah, He will give us something far better in return in this world and in the hereafter.
“Prophet Ibrahim was a model of sacrifice. He was ready to give his only son for the sake of Allah, and Allah rewarded him by substituting his son with a ram.
“That ram became a lasting symbol of sacrifice for humanity,” Abdul-Kadiri said.
He congratulated those who emerged victorious in the recently-held primary election, and advised them to govern with the fear of God, if eventually elected into power.
Abdul-Kadiri prayed for President Bola Tinubu, asking Allah to grant him sound health and wisdom to lead Nigeria to greater heights.
He also prayed for end to terrorism in the country.
Mr Jubril Oshodi, Director of Logistics and Transportation at the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, described the celebration as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice.
He said the festival should inspire Nigerians to fear God, be their brothers’ keepers, make sacrifices, and live exemplary lives.
Oshodi urged motorists to obey traffic rules and regulations at all times.
Some Muslims at the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration at Alhaja Sideeqat Ahmad Megida Mosque, Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos, on Wednesday
A food scientist, Hajia Basirah Oreagba, said that in spite of challenges, many Muslims turned out for the prayer.
She described Eid-el-Kabir as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s trial.
A computer scientist, Mr Abdullahi Musa, also expressed delight at the large turnout of Muslims for the prayer.
Some Muslims at the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration at Alhaja Sideeqat Ahmad Megida Mosque, Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos, on Wednesday
He prayed for improved security in Nigeria, urging governments to do more to address insecurity.
A fashion designer, Hajia Serifah Ogunlowo, said that the celebration was remarkable, and prayed for continued God’s guidance for Nigerians.
Some Muslims at the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration at Alhaja Sideeqat Ahmad Megida Mosque, Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos, on Wednesday
Nurudeen Abdul-Kadiri, Chief Imam of Alhaja Sideeqat Ahmad Megida Central Mosque, Ibeshe, Ikorodu, Lagos, while slaughtering ram on Wednesday to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir
The prayer attracted Muslims from different ethnic groups.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, the Labour National President, Alhaji Adewale Adeyanju and the President Nigeria Chamber of Shopping, Alahjai Aminu Umar
Oyetola, Adeyanju, Umar to lead SCAN Dockworkers’ Day talks on Green Ports
Lagos, May 27, 2026: The Minister of and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, labour leader Adewale Adeyanju, will headline SCAN Dockworkers’ Day discussions on June 4 in Lagos.
The SCAN Chairman Mr Moses Ebosele, and the Organising Committee Chairman Mr Yusuf Babalola, made this known in a statement jointly signed and make available to newsmen in Lagos on Wednesday.
They will join the President of the Nigeria Chamber of Shopping Mr Aminu Umar, and other maritime leaders to address sustainability and welfare issues affecting Nigeria’s dockworkers at the event.
Ebosele said the event holds at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 4, at Rockview Hotels, Apapa, Lagos, organized by the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria.
Themed “Green Ports: Sustainable Practices for Dockworkers,” it focuses on eco-friendly port operations, new technologies, and better working conditions across Nigerian seaports.
The SCAN President says the goal was aligning Nigerian ports with global standards while ensuring dockworkers benefit from greener, technology-driven maritime systems and improved welfare.
Babalola said that Umar will deliver the keynote address, while Adeyanju chairs the event, the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), th Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), The Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC), and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) heads are expected to give goodwill messages.
Babalola Chairman said Dockworkers’ Day would addressed the economic contributions, environmental, and operational challenges in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
“SCAN Dockworkers’ Day acknowledges dockworkers’ contributions while pushing for sustainable port practices,” the statement read, stressing the need for adaptation to industry changes.
“As maritime evolves, dockworkers need skills and tools for green port initiatives and digital transformation across global shipping systems, the association added,” Babalola said.
He urged government agencies, shipping firms, Customs, freight forwarders, and others to join, advancing a sustainable and worker-friendly port environment for Nigeria.
The committee chairman reaffirmed commitment to collaboration, improving dockworkers’ welfare, and deepening awareness of sustainable port operations nationwide.
L-R, the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka, the Employee Relations Manager, AMP Terminal, Mr Benedict Nwangwu, the Head of Asset Management APM Terminal, Mr Gordon Condie, the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams the Training Manager APMT, China Anyanwu, and the Execution Manager, Joseph Bankole during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos
NSC seeks rail integration to unlock Blue Economy potential
Lagos, May 25, 2026 , Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has said efficient rail integration into the port system will unlock trade value, reduce cargo congestion and strengthen the country’s Blue Economy potential.
Dr Juliana Saka, Assistant Director and Head of the Designate Unit, NSC, said this during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea Programme organised by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos.
Saka said rail transport remained critical to moving high cargo volumes from seaports to inland markets, reducing pressure on roads, lowering emissions and improving trade efficiency.
From first right the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams with some students in Lagos during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos
According to her, dedicated rail corridors reduce cargo dwell time, increase port throughput and connect shippers to factories and distribution hubs more efficiently.
“Rail operators unlock trade value by moving high volumes from ports to inland markets, reducing congestion, emissions and truck bottlenecks.
“When rail connects to ports, supply chains become faster, cleaner and more reliable. It reduces gate congestion, shortens dwell times, lowers costs and boosts resilience by easing road pressure,” she said.
Babington Macaulay showcasing Maritime Club
She noted that although oceans move cargo efficiently, delays often occur at ports because roads, truck parks and terminals struggle to absorb increasing cargo volumes.
“Nearly 60 per cent of freight moves by road, offering flexibility for short-distance movement but placing huge pressure on major transport corridors.
“This reliance increases congestion, emissions, costs and delays, becoming a structural challenge in high-growth trade regions,” she said.
Saka said integrating rail into the Blue Economy would bridge ports to the hinterland, enabling reliable cargo movement with lower emissions and fewer logistics bottlenecks.
She, however, identified customs delays, multiple checkpoints, overlapping charges and fragmented regulations as major constraints affecting rail cargo operations in Lagos ports.
The Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet William, Jeremiah Sax and the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka, the Assistant Director, Head of Designate Complaints Unit, Nigeria Shippers’ Council, Dr Juliana Saka,
According to her, inconsistent fees and approval delays increase cargo dwell time and weaken the competitiveness of rail transport.
To unlock the sector’s potential, she called for direct rail connections to Lagos ports, development of inland container depots in Ibadan, Kano and Kaduna, and upgrades of standard gauge rail corridors.
Saka also advocated harmonisation of customs procedures and charges, expansion of the single-window system and simplification of intermodal tariffs to improve cost predictability.
She further recommended the establishment of a Rail-Port Integration Authority, increased Public-Private Partnership (PPP) investments and regular stakeholder engagement to address operational challenges.
On digital transformation, Saka urged the deployment of e-booking and cargo tracking platforms, as well as training for operators in intermodal logistics management.
She also proposed pilot rail corridors such as Lagos-Ibadan and temporary incentives for rail cargo movement to attract investment into the sector.
The students were also exposed to multimodal cargo operations and logistics career opportunities.
Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams, said the initiative was designed to help students understand cargo movement through rail, trucks and seaports, while encouraging interest in logistics and supply chain careers.
According to her, the foundation had earlier taken students to the Nigerian Railway Corporation headquarters to educate them on rail cargo movement.
“Today’s programme exposed students to how cargo is transferred from ports to trucks and rail systems.
“It is important for students to understand multimodal cargo operations so they can consider careers in logistics and supply chain management,” she said.
Babington Macaulay showcasing Maritime Club
Also speaking, the Head of Commercials, APM Terminals, Mr Kayode Daniel, explained the cargo handling process from the port of origin to the destination country.
“Once the importer gathers the goods for shipment, the shipping company takes responsibility for transporting them to the country.
“Before arrival, the company raises Form M and issues a Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) to enable payment of customs duties and shipping charges,” he said.
The Head of Asset Management APM Terminal, Mr Gordon Condie, receiving plaque as an appreciation from the Convener of the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams, during the Children’s Day Blue Talents Rail-to-Sea programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation and APM Terminals on Monday in Apapa, Lagos
Daniel added that cargo movement from China to Nigeria takes approximately 30 days, while demurrage charges begin five days after cargo discharge at the terminal.
The programme also featured practical sessions on cargo processing, port operations and intermodal transportation systems aimed at broadening students’ understanding of Nigeria’s maritime and logistics value chain.
Executive of the Nigeria Maritime Law Association, from third left, Director NSW, Mr Tola Fakolade, the President NMLA, Mr Mike Igbokwe (SAN), the passed President of the association Mr Chidi Ilogu, (SAN), the Immediate passed President Mrs Funke Agbor, the 1st Vice President: Prof. Adewale Adedamola Olawoyin, SAN, FCIArb; 2nd Vice President: Dr. Emeka Akabogu, SAN; Honorary Secretary: Mrs Nneka Obianyor, and other executive members during the 4th breakfast Meeting held in Lagos on Friday
Maritime lawyers seek standalone law for single window project
Lagos, May 22, 2026, The President of the Nigeria Maritime Law Association (NMLA), Mr Mike Igbokwe, SAN, has urged the Federal Government to establish an independent legal framework for the National Single Window project.
Igbokwe spoke on behalf of the association during the fourth breakfast meeting under the theme ‘Regulatory Reforms: The National Single Window Project’ held in Lagos on Friday.
He said the National Single Window should operate under a standalone Act of the National Assembly to provide clear operational guidelines and legal backing.
From L-R, the First Vice President of the Nigeria Maritime Law Association (NMLA), Dr Emeka Akabogu; the President of NMLA, Mr Mike Igbokwe (SAN); the Director, National Single Window, Mr Tola Fakolade; and the Secretary of the association, Mrs Nneka Obianyor, during the fourth edition of the Breakfast meeting held in Lagos on Friday
According to him, the Business Facilitation Act could also be amended to incorporate the operational framework guiding the National Single Window project.
“There should be a legal framework specifically for the NSW process, either through amendment or a standalone Act of the National Assembly.
“The reason is that without such legal backing, implementation could face legal challenges from agencies questioning the authority driving the process,” Igbokwe said.
The present executive of the Nigeria Maritime Law Association during the fourth edition of the Breakfast meeting held in Lagos on Friday
He called for urgent action before full implementation, noting that the project was already progressing without an Act of the National Assembly.
Igbokwe said some existing laws referenced the project’s legal basis, but no agency had been clearly designated to drive implementation.
He identified overlapping responsibilities among port agencies as a major challenge delaying business operations at Nigerian ports.
According to him, multiple checks by sister agencies waste time, increase costs and slow cargo clearance processes.
Igbokwe said the National Single Window would harmonise operations by connecting all relevant agencies through a unified electronic platform.
He added that the system would reduce delays and improve cargo clearance efficiency across Nigerian ports.
Speaking on possible legislation, Igbokwe said the required Act could be enacted quickly if supported by strong political will.
“The project is Mr President’s baby, so it can be done swiftly if there is commitment from the authorities,” he said.
He also lamented the rising cost of imported goods caused by multiple port charges and lengthy clearance procedures.
Igbokwe said many importers now divert cargoes to neighbouring countries, leading to revenue losses for Nigeria.
Responding, the Director and Project Head of the National Single Window, Mr Tola Fakolade, said existing laws already empowered the initiative.
Fakolade explained that provisions under the Nigeria Revenue Service Act authorised the establishment of a single window platform.
the Director and Project Head of the National Single Window, Mr Tola Fakolade,
He, however, said additional regulations were needed to provide clearer operational details for the system.
“There is already an existing law, but we need regulations that will clearly define the operations of the National Single Window,” Fakolade said.
He noted that import permits from agencies including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control were now processed on one platform.
“We only need more detailed regulations derived from the Nigeria Revenue Service Act to strengthen the system,” he added.
From R-L, the President of NMLA, Mr Mike Igbokwe (SAN); appreciating the Keynote Speaker, the Director and Project Head of the National Single Window, Mr Tola Fakolade,during the fourth edition of the Breakfast meeting held in Lagos on Friday
Fakolade described the National Single Window as a Federal Government initiative designed to centralise electronic trade processes for importers and exporters.
He said the platform would harmonise data from government agencies and stakeholders to improve economic efficiency and trade competitiveness.
According to him, the system would also simplify trade documentation and transport procedures through an electronic single-window environment.
A group picture of members during the 4th breakfast Meeting held in Lagos on Friday
The fourth breakfast of NMLA Meeting was attended by former President , Chidi Ilogu (SAN), immediate passed President, Mrs Funke Agbor (SAN),
From third right, the Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Apapa Strategic Command of the NDLEA, Mr Akinwunmi Olufemi, receiving the intercepted cannabis parcels from Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi on Wednesday in Lagos
WMC Customs hands over drugs worth N235.7m to NDLEA, NAFDAC
Lagos, May 20, 2026 , Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has intensified its anti-smuggling operations along Nigeria’s waterways with the seizure of cannabis and pharmaceutical products worth over N235.7 million.
The Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, disclosed this during a news conference and handover ceremony on Wednesday in Lagos.
Ntadi said the command intercepted 822 loaves of cannabis sativa and cannabis indica, which were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and destruction.
He added that 532 bottles of pharmaceutical products, including codeine and other controlled substances, were also transferred to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
According to him, the seizures were recorded through intelligence-driven operations aimed at combating smuggling, protecting public health and strengthening border security.
Ntadi said officers also seized 10 bales of second-hand clothing, 569 pairs of used adult shoes and 517 pairs of children’s shoes during the operations.
He disclosed that smugglers concealed narcotics inside sacks of used clothing in an attempt to evade detection.
“We received credible intelligence that smugglers were disguising contraband inside used textiles.
“When officers intercepted and searched the consignment, large quantities of cannabis concealed inside the sacks were discovered,” he said.
The comptroller said 320 loaves of cannabis sativa were recovered from the 10 sacks of second-hand clothing.
He described the interception as a major breakthrough in efforts to curb trans-border crimes along Nigeria’s waterways.
Ntadi noted that some suspects escaped arrest by jumping into the waterways during the operation.
He said the Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seizures exceeded N117 million, with cannabis sativa valued at N46.7 million and cannabis indica estimated at N71 million.
The comptroller commended officers and men of the command for their professionalism and resilience despite the operational risks associated with marine anti-smuggling activities.
The Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, handing over interception pharmaceuticals to the official of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control in Lagos on Wednesday
He also praised the collaboration between Customs, NDLEA and NAFDAC, noting that inter-agency cooperation remained critical to tackling illicit drug trafficking and prohibited imports.
He also praised the collaboration between Customs, NDLEA and NAFDAC, noting that inter-agency cooperation remained critical to tackling illicit drug trafficking and prohibited imports.
Receiving the seized drugs, Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Apapa Strategic Command of NDLEA, Mr Akinwunmi Olufemi, commended the NCS for its sustained efforts against drug smuggling.
“We see Customs as our brothers. We have maintained strong cooperation over the years to rid the country of agents of darkness seeking to destroy Nigeria through drug trafficking,” he said.
Olufemi assured that the collaboration between both agencies would continue to strengthen surveillance across waterways and land borders.
He warned perpetrators to desist from the illegal trade, stressing that offenders arrested would face prosecution.
“There is no way the law will not catch up with them. If arrested, they will be prosecuted and jailed,” he said.
The Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, honoured by the African International Wrestling Federation for his anti-smuggling efforts and support for youth-focused advocacy initiatives Interception
Meanwhile, the African International Wrestling Federation honoured Ntadi for his anti-smuggling efforts and support for youth-focused advocacy initiatives.
A picture of the African International Wrestling Federation team, the Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Ntadi, and the management team to the command on Wednesday in Lagos
The organisation also unveiled a campaign titled “Pro-Wrestling Against Border Smuggling,” aimed at using sports entertainment to sensitise youths on the dangers of smuggling and cross-border crimes.
According to the organisers, the initiative will promote lawful trade, responsible citizenship and youth empowerment through awareness campaigns and collaboration with security agencies.
