Customs Seize Cocaine Worth N1bn Along Nigeria–Benin Corridor

Customs Seize Cocaine Worth N1bn Along Nigeria–Benin Corridor

Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service have intercepted cocaine valued at about ₦1 billion along the Badagry–Seme border, dealing a major blow to drug trafficking networks operating across Nigeria’s land borders.

The seizure was made during an intelligence-driven midnight operation carried out by officers of the Seme Area Command. Customs officials said the illicit drugs were concealed inside a Toyota Highlander vehicle, hidden in a specially constructed compartment designed to evade routine checks.

The consignment, made up of 22 parcels of suspected cocaine weighing approximately 25 kilograms, was intercepted while being smuggled through the busy border corridor linking Nigeria to neighbouring countries. A suspect was arrested at the scene, while the vehicle used for the operation was also seized.

Following standard procedure, the intercepted drugs, the suspect, and the vehicle were formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for forensic analysis, further investigation, and prosecution. Customs officials described the handover as part of strengthened inter-agency collaboration aimed at dismantling transnational drug cartels.

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The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the successful operation was driven by credible intelligence and enhanced border surveillance, stressing that the Service remains committed to protecting national security and public health by preventing dangerous narcotics from entering or transiting through Nigeria.

He noted that drug trafficking remains a serious threat linked to organised crime, insecurity, and social harm, adding that the Customs Service will continue to intensify enforcement across all ports, borders, and transit corridors.

The Badagry–Seme axis has long been identified as a major smuggling route, and authorities say the latest seizure highlights ongoing efforts to tighten border security, disrupt criminal supply chains, and ensure Nigeria does not serve as a transit hub for illicit drugs.

Investigations into the source, destination, and network behind the seized cocaine are ongoing, while authorities assured the public that all those found culpable will be prosecuted in line with the law.

Customs Seize Cocaine Worth N1bn Along Nigeria–Benin Corridor