ZAINAB JUNAID
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, has handed over 6,488kg Cannabis Sativa with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N519,040,000 and four suspects to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
NCS reported that the formal hand over took place at the Unit’s headquarters in Lagos, on Monday, 23 September 2024 where Comptroller Kola Oladeji, emphasised the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating illicit drug supply chains.
Oladeji explained that Cannabis Sativa poses a grave danger to our communities. “These substances do not only have detrimental effects on the individual’s health and well-being but also contribute to social problems like crime and violence.”
He cautioned youths involved in illicit drug distribution, saying they risk their lives and that of the society.
“The youths and traders who are involved in the distribution and sale of illicit drugs like cannabis sativa are not only putting their lives at risk but also jeopardising the safety and security of our society as a whole.
“Therefore, we must all take a strong stand against the trade in illicit drugs and work towards creating a drug free environment for ourselves and future generations,” the Controller stressed
Receiving the items, Deputy Commander Adekunle Makinde, the Deputy state Commander, NDLEA, expressed deep appreciation to the Comptroller and his Officers for the seizure and hand over process. “This is a clear demonstration of the existing collaboration and synergy between the NDLEA and the Nigeria Customs Service. We appreciate it and we enjoy it, because if we allow this illicit items to go into circulation, it will not go down well for this country.”