By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Wednesday took custody of 6,778.5 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, intercepted at Apapa Port, Lagos, during a joint operation with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and other security agencies. The seizure followed intelligence-led operations and joint examinations conducted on June 15 and June 24, 2026. NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), represented by Director of Seaport Operations ACGN Ibinabo Archie-Abia, said the operation demonstrates Nigeria’s strengthened efforts to dismantle international drug trafficking syndicates.
Intelligence-Led Operation Foils International Drug Network
Marwa described the seizure as a landmark achievement in inter-agency cooperation.
He said the operation resulted from months of intelligence gathering by the NDLEA Special Investigation Unit and Marine Intelligence Unit.
The agency also worked closely with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Nigeria Customs Service.
According to Marwa, the collaboration enabled officers to monitor the drug shipments across several continents before intercepting them in Lagos.
How the Drug Shipments Reached Nigeria
Marwa explained that traffickers used complex international shipping routes to avoid detection.
The first container, CAAU 7569127, departed Toronto on April 16, 2026.
It later moved by rail to Montreal before shipment aboard the Ghallow Express.
The cargo arrived at Tangier Med, Morocco, on May 6 and was transferred to the Spartel Trader.
The vessel reached Tin Can Island Port on May 27.
Authorities later moved the container to the Global Bonded Terminal before transporting it by water to Apapa Port on June 10.
Security agencies intercepted it during a joint examination.
The second container, HAMU 3246311, left Montreal on May 1 aboard the Africa Express.
It was later transferred to the Algeciras Express on May 15.
The shipment arrived at Tin Can Island Port before authorities moved it to Apapa Port on June 22.
NDLEA operatives intercepted the container upon arrival.
NDLEA Vows to Pursue Drug Cartels
Marwa stressed that the agency’s mission extends beyond drug seizures.
He said the NDLEA will identify, arrest and prosecute everyone linked to the shipments.
The agency also plans to confiscate assets acquired through drug trafficking.
According to him, criminal organisations must not benefit from illegal drug operations.
He noted that proceeds from illicit drugs continue to finance crimes that threaten families, communities and national security.
Marwa Commends Customs, Security Agencies
Marwa praised the commitment of NDLEA officers, the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies.
He said their professionalism prevented the narcotics from entering Nigerian communities.
He also highlighted the importance of intelligence sharing and coordinated operations.
According to him, the successful operation proves that strong local and international partnerships remain essential in combating transnational organised crime.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Maritime Security
The NDLEA said the seizure reinforces its determination to secure Nigeria’s maritime borders against drug trafficking.
The agency pledged to sustain intelligence-driven operations and deepen cooperation with domestic and international partners to disrupt criminal networks.
