The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted illicit drugs worth an estimated ₦5 billion at the Onne Port in Rivers State, dealing a major blow to drug trafficking networks operating through Nigeria’s maritime corridors.
The Commander of the NDLEA Port Harcourt Ports Command, Onne, Omerio Odo, disclosed the development during activities marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day).
According to Odo, the seizures were made over the past year and involved seven containers loaded with more than 3.5 million opioid tablets and 1.2 million bottles of codeine, weighing a combined 206 tonnes.
He attributed the success to intelligence-driven operations, heightened surveillance, and strong collaboration with sister security agencies and key stakeholders within the maritime industry.
Describing the haul as “the weight of misery and destruction,” Odo said the intercepted drugs would have caused untold harm to individuals, families, and communities if they had reached the streets.
He noted that while Onne Port remains one of Nigeria’s busiest gateways for international trade, criminal syndicates continue to exploit maritime routes to smuggle illicit substances into the country.
The commander vowed that the agency would sustain its aggressive crackdown on drug traffickers, stressing that the NDLEA would remain relentless in blocking illegal consignments from entering Nigeria through its seaports.
Odo also warned that traffickers are constantly evolving their tactics, increasingly using technology, social media platforms, and recreational centres to recruit users and expand their illegal operations.
He explained that beyond traditional narcotics such as cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and LSD, authorities are now contending with a growing influx of designer drugs, precursor chemicals, and other dangerous synthetic substances.
As part of its preventive efforts, the NDLEA said it has intensified its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, reaching 13 organisations—including schools, markets, workplaces, places of worship, and local communities—over the past year.
Odo commended the support of the Nigeria Customs Service, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), terminal operators, and other law enforcement agencies for their continued collaboration.
He also urged freight forwarders, clearing agents, and terminal operators to remain vigilant by thoroughly verifying cargo and promptly reporting suspicious shipments, adding that the fight against drug trafficking requires the collective efforts of government, businesses, communities, and citizens.
