The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Port Harcourt Ports Command in Onne, says it intercepted illicit drugs worth an estimated N5 billion at the port over the past year.
The commander of the command, Omerio Odo, disclosed this during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day.
He said the seizures involved seven container shipments containing more than 3.5 million tablets of opioids and 1.2 million bottles of codeine, with a combined weight of 206 tonnes.
According to him, the operations were achieved through sustained intelligence gathering, heightened surveillance, and collaboration with other security agencies and maritime stakeholders.
Odo described the intercepted consignments as “the weight of misery and destruction” that would have devastated individuals, families, and communities for the profit of drug traffickers.
He noted that while Onne Port remains a key gateway for international trade, it is also frequently targeted by criminal networks seeking to smuggle illicit substances into the country.
The commander assured that the command would continue its “relentless and ruthless” crackdown on drug trafficking to prevent illegal substances from entering Nigeria through the seaports.
He said drug syndicates are increasingly adopting new tactics, including the use of technology, social media platforms, and recreational centres to expand their reach and target users.
Odo added that while traditional narcotics such as cocaine, heroin, LSD, and cannabis remain a concern, the rise of designer drugs, precursor chemicals, and other harmful substances is becoming more pronounced.
He also disclosed that the command intensified its preventive campaigns under the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, reaching 13 organisations over the past year, including schools, places of worship, markets, and workplaces.
Odo commended the support of key stakeholders, including the Nigeria Customs Service, Department of State Services, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Ports Authority, terminal operators, and other security agencies, for their role in ongoing enforcement efforts.
He urged freight forwarders, clearing agents, and bonded terminal operators to remain vigilant, properly verify cargoes, and report suspicious consignments.
The NDLEA commander further called for collective action by government, civil society, communities, and individuals to reduce both the supply and demand for illicit drugs in the country.
