TDThe Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, has intensified its enforcement drive across the South-West, unveiling a new anti-narcotics initiative dubbed Operation Hawk.
In just eight weeks, the unit foiled 473 smuggling attempts, seizing cocaine, cannabis, and other contraband in what officials describe as one of the most aggressive crackdowns in recent years.
Major Drug Seizures
At a press briefing in Lagos on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu announced the interception of 3,340 parcels of synthetic cannabis (‘Ghanaian Loud’) weighing 1,540 kilograms.
“This effort is an affirmation of our commitment to the fight against drug-smuggling syndicates.
“Traffickers are devising new methods daily, and there is a need for critical security stakeholders to upscale intelligence sharing to cut the supply chain completely,” Aliyu said.
In another operation, officers intercepted a Toyota Highlander along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor.
They arrested a 71-year-old suspect with 6.4 kilograms of cocaine and methamphetamine valued at ₦2.35 billion.
Contraband and Hazardous Materials
Beyond narcotics, the unit recorded significant seizures of:
- 8,794 bags of foreign parboiled rice
- 22 used Tokunbo vehicles
- 485 used tyres
- Other prohibited goods
The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of these seizures exceeded ₦5.5 billion.
Aliyu also revealed the interception of four cylinders of high-grade mercury concealed in a vehicle at the Gbaji outpost.
The hazardous material has been handed over to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) for further action.
Revenue Recovery
The unit generated ₦97.7 million through demand notices issued on improperly declared consignments during the review period.
Aliyu stressed that the FOU remains committed to balancing enforcement with trade facilitation.
“While we maintain vigilance against smuggling, fraud, and criminalities, the FOU remains a strong partner in trade facilitation.
“We continue to support legitimate trade through intelligence-driven operations that strike a balance between security enforcement and economic growth,” he stated.
Collaboration with NDLEA and Global Context
The seized drugs and three suspects have been handed over to Commander Mohammed Kabiru of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.
The crackdown comes at a time when global narcotics trafficking routes are under intense pressure due to instability in the Strait of Hormuz.
where U.S.-Iran hostilities have disrupted shipping and created ripple effects across international trade.
Analysts warn that syndicates are exploiting alternative corridors, including West Africa, to move contraband.
By launching Operation Hawk, Customs is signaling Nigeria’s determination to prevent the country from becoming a transit hub for illicit trade at a moment when global supply chains are strained by geopolitical conflict.
Operation Hawk represents a decisive escalation in Nigeria’s war against smuggling and drug trafficking.
With billions of naira worth of contraband intercepted, hazardous materials neutralized, and suspects in custody, the Customs Service is positioning itself as a frontline defender of national security and economic stability.
Meanwhile, global tensions in the Gulf continue to reshape the dynamics of illicit trade.
