Customs Intercepts Controlled Drugs Worth Over ₦18 Million at Mfum Border, Hands Over to NDLEA in C'River
Benjamin GBOR
The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted a large quantity of controlled pharmaceutical products at the Mfum Border in Cross River State. The seizure which took place on March 29, 2025, was announced during a handover event held by the Customs Area Controller for Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone/Akwa Ibom Area Command, Comptroller Chukwudi Gabriel Ogbonna.
Addressing members of the press, Comptroller Ogbonna revealed that a total of 649 units of restricted drugs were intercepted by vigilant officers on duty. The items include: 37 units of Phenobarbital Sodium Sterop 100mg,
216 units of Pethidine 100mg Solution Injection, 108 units of Fentanyl 50mm, 216 units of Morphine Sulphate 10mg/ml, 49 units of Phenobarbital Sodium Injection, and 23 units of Midazolam Mylan 5mg/ml.
“These are highly regulated substances, and their movement without proper authorization poses a serious risk to public health and national security,” Ogbonna said.
In line with the Memorandum of Understanding between the Nigeria Customs Service and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the seized items were officially handed over to the NDLEA, Cross River State Command.
The NDLEA, represented by Commander Rachael Omobulia, appreciated the NCS for a job well done. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between security and enforcement agencies in the fight against drug trafficking and other cross-border crimes.
“Teamwork among agencies like ours is crucial. This handover is a clear example of how cooperation leads to success,” Commander Omobulia said.
Comptroller Ogbonna also stressed that the achievement is a result of the synergy between both agencies and a call for all operatives to work together in national interest. “Today’s event is a testament to the power of teamwork. By leveraging on each other’s strengths, we can better serve and protect our country,” he added.
The NDLEA is expected to conduct further investigations to trace the origin and intended destination of the seized drugs.
