Adeniyi Leads Handover of 399 Rifles, ₦373.8m Cannabis Seizure to Security Agencies

Victoria Silvanus

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has led the handover of 399 pump-action rifles and component parts to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, as well as cannabis-infused products valued at ₦373.8 million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), reaffirming the Nigeria Customs Service's commitment to national security and the fight against illicit trafficking.

The handover ceremony brought together senior customs officers, representatives of security agencies and members of the media, highlighting the growing collaboration among law enforcement institutions in tackling transnational crimes and safeguarding the nation.

Speaking at the event, Adeniyi described the exercise as a demonstration of the Service's determination to protect Nigeria's borders and support the Federal Government's efforts to combat the illegal trafficking of arms, ammunition and narcotics.

He explained that the transfer of the seized rifles and component parts to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons was intended to ensure that intercepted weapons are properly accounted for and managed in accordance with established laws and procedures.

"This occasion is significant because it demonstrates our collective commitment to strengthening national security and ensuring that arms and other controlled items are properly accounted for and managed in accordance with the law. The fight against illicit arms and drug trafficking requires vigilance, collaboration and unwavering resolve from all security agencies."

The Customs boss stressed that effective border management can only be achieved through sustained collaboration, intelligence sharing and mutual support among security and regulatory agencies.

"This handover represents more than the transfer of seized items. It symbolizes accountability, transparency and the strong inter-agency cooperation necessary to preserve peace, maintain public safety and strengthen national security. We remain committed to ensuring that dangerous weapons and narcotics do not find their way into our communities."

Adeniyi commended the leadership and officers of the Tin Can Island Port Command for their professionalism, vigilance and commitment to improving operational effectiveness, while also appreciating the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons for its continued partnership in addressing the proliferation of illicit weapons.

The Service also announced the interception of two 40-foot containers at Tin Can Island Port containing cannabis-infused products concealed among other imported goods.

The seized items comprised Delta-8 cannabis-infused pre-rolls, Delta-8 cannabis-infused gummies and cannabis-infused cookies with a combined street value of ₦373,802,640.

According to Customs, the illicit substances were formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and appropriate action in line with the agency's statutory mandate.

"Our collaboration with the NDLEA and other sister agencies remains critical to protecting Nigerians from the dangers posed by illicit drugs and organised criminal networks. These seizures demonstrate that our intelligence-driven operations are yielding tangible results."

The Service noted that the transfer further demonstrates the strong partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and sister security agencies in protecting the nation from the threats posed by illicit drugs and other prohibited substances.

Officials said the action reflects the determination of security agencies to ensure that dangerous narcotics intercepted at ports and borders do not find their way into communities where they could endanger lives, fuel criminal activities and undermine public health and safety.

The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-driven operations, effective border management and sustained collaboration with relevant agencies to combat drug trafficking, curb the proliferation of illicit arms and strengthen national security.

During the ceremony, Adeniyi formally handed over the seized rifles and component parts to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, while the cannabis-infused products were transferred to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution.

Officials at the event said the coordinated action underscores the increasing synergy among security agencies in addressing security threats, combating organised crime and ensuring the safety and security of Nigerians.