Customs Worries Over Alarming Rate Of Illicit Drug Abuse Among Nigerian Youths

..Intercepts Substance Worth N4.1bn At Tin Can Port

 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the seizure of two containers laden with unwholesome importations, including regulated unregistered pharmaceutical products and illicit psychotropic substances at the Tin Can Island Port.

Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi who disclosed this while addressing journalists in Lagos on Friday, also expressed concern over the alarming rate of drug abuse among youths, which he said pose significant threat to national security and economic stability.

Adeniyi said the containers, imported from Canada and India, contained cannabis indica, Barcadin cough syrup with codeine, and other restricted substances with a combined street value of over N4.1billion.

This substance not only impairs the health and well-being of individuals but also contributes to the rise in criminal activities. Cannabis Indica, similarly, has become a significant concern, with its abuse leading to mental health issues, addiction, and social problems. Unchecked activities involving restricted items serve multiple purposes for criminal elements.

“These drugs, for instance, are used as stimulants by criminals, further fuelling societal unrest and instability. Additionally,the proceeds from the illicit drug trade are often used to finance disruptions by non-state actors, posing a significant threat to our national security and economic stability.”

Giving details of the seized containers, Adeniyi said they contained, “Three plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, 46bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica all weighing 1,072kilogrammes (kg) seized from 01x40ft Container No. GAOU 669921/5 imported from Canada.

The approximate street value of the illicit substances is N3, 216,000,000.00. “877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine- 200 bottles of 100ml per carton and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets – 600 packs per carton imported from India was seized. The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964, 339,348.00.”

The Customs CG described the drug seizures as a troubling trend indicating an evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in the country.

“Let this seizure serve as a warning to those who engage in illicit activities that the NCS remains vigilant and dedicated to protecting our society. NCS is more than ever committed to ensuring that the benefits of a stable and prosperous economy are enjoyed by all Nigerians, ” the Customs CG said

He said, “We will recall that in recent months, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported a number of successfully executed interceptions and seizures of illicit drugs, arms and ammunition, illegal wildlife and petroleum products at various locations, representing a concerted effort to prevent illegal entry and exit in and out of the country through diverse routes and means of conveyances.

“These interceptions have brought to light a concerning trend wherein criminal networks engage in collaborative attempts to subvert the competency of the agencies tasked with mitigating the trafficking of such illicit substances.

“The misuse and abuse of drugs, particularly Cannabis Indica and codeine, pose severe dangers to our society. Codeine, a restricted drug in Nigeria, has been widely abused, leading to devastating effects on our youth.

“

Adeniyi commended the collaborative efforts between NCS and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), which he said have consistently yielded positive results. He also commended the Controller, Tin can port Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi and the command’s operatives for their diligence and commitment to intercepting the illicit drugs.

He assured that the NCS will continue to work with national and international agencies to intercept illegal goods and disrupt criminal networks, urging patriotic Nigerians to continue their legitimate business activities while the NCS is actively working with stakeholders to ease the challenges faced by businesses and the general public.

He said investigations are ongoing, and those found culpable in the illicit shipment will be made to serve the full wrath of the law.