LASAA clears staff of fraud allegation

The Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) has cleared one of its staff members, Olukayode John Adetifa, of allegations of fraud that recently went viral on social media.

However, the agency confirmed that disciplinary measures will still be taken against him for violating the organisation’s ‘no cash’ policy.

The incident began when a social media post accused Adetifa, attached to LASAA’s Alimosho Branch Office, of fraudulently collecting N45,000 from MJ Beauty Salon, a client, through his personal Opay account, while issuing an official receipt of only N7,100.

The post quickly gained traction online, prompting LASAA to release an official statement addressing the allegation.

In its statement, the agency said it immediately directed Adetifa to report for investigation and disciplinary proceedings, stressing that all payments for signage and advertisement services must be made strictly through designated government channels.

LASAA reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability in all its dealings.

A fact-finding exercise by LASAA’s disciplinary panel, which included a visit to the business owner, revealed that the situation was more nuanced than initially portrayed.

According to Adetifa’s testimony, MJ Beauty Salon had several unregistered signs and was due for enforcement.

During his visit to encourage compliance, the client was said to have offered to pay the outstanding fees.

When she complained of feeling unwell and unable to complete the online payment herself, she requested his assistance.

Adetifa admitted to helping her make the official payment using his personal account, collecting N40,000 to cover the full fees for three signs, including an application processing fee of N7,140, a permit fee of N28,880, and payment gateway charges.

He said he registered the signs online in the client’s presence and assured her she would receive an email confirmation.

The salon owner later confirmed his version of events to LASAA’s management, stating she was unaware of the viral post and had no issues with Adetifa.

She apologised for the misunderstanding and distanced herself from the social media account that shared the false narrative.

While exonerating Adetifa of fraud, LASAA noted that his actions still breached internal policies.

‘Though our staff had no fraudulent intent, he has still committed an offence by collecting a client’s money in his personal account, contrary to the Agency’s policy,’ the management said.

The agency added that appropriate sanctions would be applied in line with the Public Service Rules once the disciplinary committee concludes its report.

LASAA used the occasion to remind Lagos residents to follow due process and avoid paying cash or transferring funds to personal accounts under any circumstances.

It reiterated that all agency processes are automated, transparent, and self-service through its official website.

The agency also warned the public against spreading unverified information online, noting that such actions could undermine public trust and the reputation of government institutions.

Anambra gov’s wife advocate urgent action to tackle counts of Hepatitis B, C in Nigeria

The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has said the fast-rising counts of Hepatitis B and C prevalence in Nigeria calls for all-time urgency of action to halt the tide.

Soludo, who is also the founder of the ‘Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo’, noted that to date, available figures showed that an estimated 20 million people are infected by either of the diseases or both.

The Anambra first lady said over 80 per cent of these people not even aware of their status, lamenting that a large majority of Nigerians know a little or absolutely nothing about Hepatitis and its dreadfulness.

She stated this during the 2025 National Hepatitis Summit in Abuja according to a press statement she released to journalists in Awka on Friday.

She said like most ailments, Hepatitis B can be treated if detected early enough. Hepatitis C, too, can be treated with antiviral medicines but only if discovered as early as possible.

The statement read in part, ‘The fast-rising counts of Hepatitis B and C prevalence in Nigeria call for all-time urgency of action. To date, available figures show that an estimated 20 million people are infected by either of the diseases or both, with over 80 per cent of these people not even aware of their status.

‘The truth is that we got to this ugly side because a large majority of our people know a little or absolutely nothing about Hepatitis and its dreadfulness.

‘So today at the 2025 National Hepatitis Summit in Abuja, I joined First Ladies from across the country and shared the platform with experts in the field and took away vital points on what we can do as important stakeholders to strengthen the fight against Hepatitis B and C starting from our respective states.

‘At the centre of conversation is the understanding that even though we are far behind in the journey, we can still make a satisfactory headway if we begin now.

‘Like most ailments, Hepatitis B can be treated if detected early enough. Hepatitis C, too, can be treated with antiviral medicines but only if discovered as early as possible.’

According to her, the good news is that hepatitis B vaccination is included as part of routine vaccination for children in Nigeria. Adults, too, can get vaccinated at any good health facility. The vaccines are not just safe but very effective.

‘The numbers are scary. Yes. But if we don’t show adequate commitment to the campaign through education and strategic dialogues, we’d be dealing with a bigger problem in the soonest future.

‘The time is now to push back the ravage of Hepatitis in Anambra State and Nigeria,’ the statement added.

UNICEF, NPC target 545,000 under-one children for birth registration in Lagos

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC), has stepped up its commitment to accelerate the universal birth registration drive in Lagos State, targeting no fewer than 545,000 children under one year of age for registration.

The global agency made this known in Lagos at a one-day Multi-Sectoral Stakeholders’ Dialogue on Birth Registration held recently.

The forum brought together government officials, traditional rulers, community and religious leaders, civil society groups, school owners, the media, and development partners.

Speaking at the event, Celine Lafoucriere, Chief of UNICEF Lagos Field Office, underscored the importance of birth registration for every child, describing it as a mark of citizenship identity and the first line of protection.

According to her, without registration, children remain invisible and cannot access healthcare, education, or social services.

She commended Lagos State for making real progress in universal birth registration, revealing that the state has already achieved 94% registration of children below five years-the highest rate in the country.

This achievement, she said, reflects the commitment of the state and its partners, even though much ground (6%) still needs to be covered.

According to her, hard-to-reach communities, informal settlements, and low-income families still face barriers to registering children after birth, while the goal remains to leave no child behind.

Lafoucriere disclosed that the 545,000 newborns, which constitute the fresh target for Lagos State, represent its share out of the 3.69 million targeted across 15 states, the highest among them.

Referencing previous accomplishments, the UNICEF field chief said, ‘In September 2025, the NPC, with UNICEF’s support, began distributing over 16 million birth certificates nationwide, out of which Lagos received the highest allocation-more than six million certificates.’

She explained that the current focus is on registering children under one year, as previous national drives had covered millions under five, and the current effort is to capture only newborns.

Lafoucriere mentioned that she is particularly pleased that ‘all birth registration trainings in the state have been completed across the 20 LGAs, including health facility trainings, and registration supplies, including tablets, have also been distributed.

‘We believe this is totally achievable with the support and contributions of every stakeholder.

‘The Ministry of Health must integrate registration into immunisation, maternal health, and other support services, as I was explaining with the example of my home country, France.

‘Education authorities must ensure that birth certificates are required before school enrolment. This will greatly help to push and encourage parents to register their children at birth.’

The UNICEF field chief applauded sectoral leaders, particularly traditional rulers, community and religious leaders, for their continuous support towards the campaign, describing it as part of their civic responsibility.

She also urged the media to continue amplifying messages that resonate across Nigeria’s diverse communities, adding that civil society must hold everyone accountable.

‘This dialogue is about action. We will co-create a Lagos State birth registration plan to drive demand at the community level.

‘So, we need to think beyond individual mandates. Let’s go back to our people and tell them why they must register their newborns and also incorporate traditional birth attendant centres.’

In her remarks, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, Federal Commissioner, National Population Commission (NPC), Lagos, reiterated the significance of birth registration, saying that data is what governments at all levels rely on to plan for children-whether in terms of schools, healthcare, or recreational facilities.

‘But when data are not available to do all these, it becomes a serious problem not only for the children but for the society at large,’ she noted. ‘That is why it is absolutely important for all of us, after this dialogue, to go back home and tell our people at different levels why everyone must register their newborns.’

Oladunjoye explained that accurate registration data help governments plan effectively for schools, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure.

‘If you know the number of children born in a place like Mushin, you can plan how many schools or health centres to build. That is why this is so important,’ she added.

She commended UNICEF, ALGON, and other partners for their continued collaboration, describing the campaign as a shared responsibility.

Suspended Owo LG chairman apologises to Olowo over viral audio

The suspended Chairman of Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Hon. Tope Omolayo, has tendered an apology to the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, following the circulation of a viral audio recording attributed to him concerning the recent crisis in the council area.

Omolayo described the incident as regrettable and reaffirmed his respect for the traditional institution, pledging to work closely with the monarch to ensure peace and unity in Owo.

In a letter dated October 20, 2025, addressed to the monarch, Omolayo deeply regretted his unruly statements against the revered ruler.

It will be recalled that Omolayo was suspended last week by his councillors over alleged gross misconduct.

In the letter, Omolayo stated: ‘I take full responsibility for my words and acknowledge the grave disrespect they conveyed towards your highly revered stool and personality.

‘I am profoundly sorry for any hurt, embarrassment, or disappointment my utterances may have caused you, our royal household, and the good people of Owo Kingdom.

‘My actions in that moment were thoughtless and do not reflect the values of our culture, the respect I hold for the traditional institution, nor the esteem with which I regard your person as the custodian of our cherished heritage.

‘Your Imperial Majesty, I plead for your forgiveness and seek your fatherly understanding. I assure you that this unfortunate incident has served as a sobering moment of reflection and has further strengthened my resolve to act with greater wisdom, humility, and respect moving forward.

‘Let me also use this opportunity to reaffirm my unwavering loyalty and total commitment to the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency (Dr) Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and the entire All Progressives Congress (APC) family.

‘I remain a dedicated servant of our great party and will continue to work tirelessly in line with its ideals and in support of the Governor’s visionary leadership for the betterment of our state and Owo in particular.

‘Furthermore, I appeal to all sons and daughters of Owo at home and in the diaspora to join hands with us in building a peaceful, prosperous, and progressive Owo Local Government. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of division and strife. Now more than ever, we must unite in purpose and action to secure the future of our land.’

Omolayo, who also appealed to the councillors, said: ‘To our esteemed councillors, I express my sincere gratitude for your steadfastness and support, and humbly seek your continued cooperation as we strive to fulfil our mandate to the people.

‘Finally, I plead with all aggrieved persons to find it in their hearts to forgive and bury the hatchet. Let us move forward with a renewed spirit of unity, reconciliation, and shared commitment to the growth of our community.’

Boko Haram now deploys drones for attacks – Zulum

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has called on the Federal Government to urgently conduct a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s air safety and defence systems following a disturbing incident in which Boko Haram terrorists reportedly used a drone to attack a military base in Mafa Local Government Area of the state.

Speaking to journalists in Mafa on Friday, Zulum expressed deep concern over the insurgents’ growing sophistication, describing the use of drones by non-state actors as a ‘dangerous escalation’ and a serious national security threat.

‘One thing I want to comment on is the issue of drones. This is frightening. In Dikwa, I was told drones were used. The proliferation of drones, particularly in the hands of non-state actors, is of great concern for the entire country. We have to do something to stop the rampant use of armed drones,’ the governor stated.

Zulum noted that the successful deployment of drones by the terrorists exposed a major vulnerability in Nigeria’s airspace security, stressing that urgent steps must be taken to strengthen both the nation’s borders and air defence systems.

‘This is not an issue confined to Borno alone. Our borders need to be strengthened, and our airspace needs to be reinforced as well. This is the right time for the security architecture to thoroughly look into strengthening the capability of our airspace to curtail the use of armed drones by terrorists,’ he added.

While commending the Nigerian Armed Forces for their continued sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, Zulum urged citizens to support the military by reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.

‘We are here to commiserate with the victims over what happened yesterday and to build the confidence of our people. I urge the community to be vigilant and report credible information to the Nigerian Armed Forces. Members of the Civilian Joint Task Force should also remain resilient to complement the efforts of the military,’ he said.

The governor also revealed that there had been credible intelligence reports warning of an impending attack on Mafa, which were circulated to relevant authorities. He called for stronger collaboration between state and federal governments, the military high command, and other security stakeholders to address internal lapses.

‘I believe there might be sabotage within that has to be identified and addressed. We don’t have to blame each other; we have to come together and resolve this situation,’ Zulum concluded.

Tinubu hails FATF for removing Nigeria from grey list

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has delisted Nigeria from its grey list, a development being celebrated by President Bola Tinubu.

The FATF is the global foremost body setting standards for combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.

The Presidency disclosed that the FATF announced the delisting of Nigeria from the grey list during its plenary in Paris, France, on Friday.

‘The announcement formally removed Nigeria from the list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring, commonly referred to as the ‘grey list’.

‘President Tinubu described the development as ‘a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards economic reform, institutional integrity and global credibility.”, Presidential Spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said in a statement.

The Presidency explained that the decision followed Nigeria’s successful and timely completion of its FATF Action Plan, marking over two years of sustained effort, reform, and inter-agency coordination aimed at strengthening the country’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework.

‘In February 2023, the FATF placed Nigeria on the grey list. The message from the global community was clear: the nation needed more vigorous enforcement, better coordination, and greater transparency. Rather than treat this as a setback, Nigeria viewed it as a call to action.

‘Under President Tinubu’s strategic leadership and in line with the economic transformation agenda of his administration, Nigeria implemented far-reaching legal, institutional, and operational reforms.

‘This was achieved through the coordination of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), working in conjunction with the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Minister of Finance, and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and the Minister of Interior’, the statement added.

Tinubu praised the vital support from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Minister of Aviation, the Minister for Budget and Economic Planning, the Minister for Defence, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Solid Minerals, the Minister of State for Finance, the National Security Adviser as well as the leadership of the National Assembly and the Judiciary, in the attainment of the achievement.

He also commended the Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Ms Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, and the staff for their diligence in ensuring the complete and timely implementation of the country’s Action Plan.

Tinubu noted that the NFIU’s work had led to the recognition by the international community of the strides Nigeria has made in strengthening its measures to tackle serious crimes.

‘Without their dedication and sacrifice, today’s success could not have been achieved.

‘I thank them for their efforts and urged other stakeholders to emulate their standards’, President Tinubu said.

He also commended all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), their heads, and private sector representatives who contributed to the delisting through their active participation in the National Task Force on AML/CFT.

Among these are the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, the Registrar-General of the Corporate Affairs Commission, the Chief of the Defence Staff, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, the National Coordinator National Counter-Terrorism Centre, the Chairman National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, the Managing Director Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, the Inspector-GeneralNigeria Police Force, and the Director-General Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as all their dedicated staff

The Presidency stated that Nigeria’s efforts in completing the Action Plan were complemented by the country’s close partnership with the FATF and the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA).

Tinubu acknowledged the strong support of international partners, the Governments of France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, the United Nations, and the European Commission, for their steadfast technical assistance during Nigeria’s reform process.

According to him, Nigeria’s removal from the FATF grey list is ‘not just a technical accomplishment, it is a strategic victory for our economy and a renewed vote of confidence in Nigeria’s financial governance.’

He further noted, ‘The exit from the FATF grey list marks the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s financial reform agenda as Nigeria will sustain the already institutionalised reforms, deepen institutional collaboration and continue to build a financial system that Nigerians and the world can trust’.

Petroleum smuggling: Customs hands over sealed petrol station to NMDPRA

The Operation Whirlwind unit of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Friday handed over a sealed petrol station, identified as Adeola Ade PLC, located along Owode Apa Road, Badagry, Lagos State, to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for further regulatory action and sanction.

Addressing the media during the handover process, the National Coordinator, Operation Whirlwind, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Kola Oladeji, explained that the filling station was sealed for infractions inconsistent with the standards and regulations governing petroleum retail operations in Nigeria.

According to ACG Oladeji:

‘It is with a deep sense of duty and commitment to national service that I stand before you today, as directed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to formally hand over the sealed filling station identified as Adeola Ade PLC, located along Owode Apa Road, Badagry, Lagos State, to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for further regulatory action and sanction.

This facility was sealed by operatives of Operation Whirlwind on the 4th of October, 2025, following credible intelligence and a thorough investigation which revealed infractions inconsistent with the standards and regulations governing petroleum retail operations in Nigeria. Our operatives, acting within the ambit of the law and guided by our mandate to sanitize the downstream sector, executed the sealing in a professional and transparent manner.

Operation Whirlwind remains resolute in its mission to rid the sector of sharp practices, protect consumers, and uphold the integrity of our national energy infrastructure.

However, we recognize that enforcement is a shared responsibility. As such, we now hand over this facility to the NMDPRA , the statutory body empowered to investigate, sanction, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

We trust that the Authority will carry out its mandate with fairness, diligence, and in accordance with due process.

Let this handover serve as a clear message to all operators in the sector: non-compliance will not be tolerated, and collaboration among agencies will continue to strengthen enforcement.

It is pertinent to acknowledge the critical roles played by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in strategic intelligence guidance and overarching policy support under the leadership of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his strong commitment to addressing security challenges in Nigeria; the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and his entire management team for their unwavering support for this operation. We remain hopeful for continued collaboration and sustained commitment to its success.

Equally commendable is the NMDPRA, whose technical expertise and regulatory framework have ensured that our actions align with best practices while addressing systemic challenges within the petroleum supply chain. We also appreciate the dedicated personnel of Operation Whirlwind and patriotic Nigerians who continue to stand with us in the pursuit of our mission to dismantle smuggling networks and bring economic saboteurs to justice.’

Tinubu’s wife inaugurates E-learning centre in Delta school

A state-of-the-art E-Learning Centre has been established at the Delta Model Technical College, Asaba, by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), championed by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

The centre was officially commissioned on Thursday during a national virtual event that connected 10 newly completed Digital Learning Centres across Abia, Kano, Katsina, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ondo, Yobe, Zamfara, and Edo states.

Each centre, including the one in Asaba, is equipped with 15 desktop computers, a smart board, and full internet connectivity to promote learning and digital literacy among students.

Speaking during the commissioning, Senator Oluremi Tinubu commended NITDA for partnering with the Renewed Hope Initiative to equip young Nigerians with the digital skills essential for the future.

‘In the nearest future, every nook and cranny of our country will be digitalized. I officially commission these ten ICT centres across Nigeria,’ she declared.

Represented by the wife of the Delta State Governor and State RHI Coordinator, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, through Dr. Josephine Emu, wife of the Secretary to the State Government, the First Lady described the facility as a major step toward empowering young people with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

‘In today’s world, digital skills are not optional. This e-learning centre is a beacon of opportunity – a gateway to prosperity where our students can dream bigger and prepare for a digital future,’ she said.

In his remarks, the Director-General of NITDA, Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes human capital development and digital transformation.

‘Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we have established 236 ICT centres nationwide, with plans to reach 592 by 2027. These hubs are designed to empower citizens, drive innovation, and build a sustainable digital economy,’ he said.

Also speaking, the Delta State Commissioner for Technical Education, Hon. Smart Ufoh, applauded the initiative as a reflection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s dedication to innovation, creativity, and digital inclusion.

‘This project embodies the government’s commitment to advancing technical education and promoting digital literacy necessary to excel in today’s world,’ he said, while requesting the provision of an additional computer hall to accommodate more students.

The Principal of Model Technical College, Asaba, Mrs. Violet Owuijaren, expressed gratitude to the First Lady, NITDA, and RHI, describing the facility as a ‘lasting investment in the future of Delta students.’

‘This centre will serve as a hub for innovation and a place where learning meets technology. We are deeply honoured by this gesture,’ she added.

A student representative, Chukwu Dumebi, also thanked the First Lady and NITDA for the donation, noting that the digital tools would greatly enhance students’ learning experiences.

The commissioning ceremony concluded with a colourful display by the students, featuring energetic cultural dances and a spoken-word performance celebrating education as the gateway to a brighter, tech-driven future.

BREAKING: Tinubu sacks Chief of Defence Staff

President Bola Tinubu has dismissed General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff and approved the appointment of General Olufemi Oluyede as his replacement, marking a major shake-up in the leadership of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.

According to a statement from the State House, the president also approved the appointment of Major-General W. Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff.

The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye, retained his position.

Tinubu commended the outgoing Service Chiefs for what he described as their ‘patriotic service and dedicated leadership,’ urging the newly appointed officers to ‘justify the confidence reposed in them’ and to uphold professionalism, vigilance, and unity within the Armed Forces.

The president’s directive takes immediate effect, according to a statement signed by Mr. Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication.

Customs intercepts imported vehicles containing N5.3bn illicit drugs at Tin-Can Port

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, late on Friday, announced the interception of two containers laden with motor vehicles used to conceal significant quantities of illicit drugs worth N5.3bn.

The Command made the disclosure during a press briefing held at its headquarters on Friday evening.

Addressing members of the press, the Customs Area Controller, Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, highlighted the seizures as a testament to the Command’s resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s borders and ensure compliance with international trade regulations.

According to the Area Controller, the first container, with number HLXU8500072 and Bill of Lading Number HLCUTOR2506000834, originating from Montreal, Canada, was intercepted on 4 September 2025 through meticulous intelligence and coordinated enforcement efforts.

Upon 100 per cent physical examination, jointly conducted with other relevant agencies, the container was found to contain four vehicles with concealed quantities of 156 packets of Colorado Indica (a strain of cannabis) weighing 78 kilograms, and 1.2 kilograms of Hashish Oil.

The second container, numbered FANU 312876/9, was intercepted on 24 October 2025, following actionable intelligence provided by the Customs Area Controller.

The container, also carrying four vehicles, was found to conceal 2,081 packages of Cannabis Indica weighing 1,093 kilograms and eight (8) packages of Crystal Methamphetamine (‘Meth’) weighing 8 kilograms.

The total street value of the illicit drugs seized from both operations is estimated at ?5.304 billion.

In line with established inter-agency collaboration protocols, the seized narcotic substances have been formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation, prosecution, and other necessary legal actions.

The Area Controller commended the NDLEA and other partner security agencies-including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Navy, and other stakeholders-for their continued collaboration in combating drug trafficking and other transnational crimes. He issued a stern warning to individuals and groups involved in illicit drug smuggling, noting that such acts undermine the nation’s economy and pose grave risks to national security and public health.

‘Let it be known that Tin Can Island Port Command, under my watch, remains resolute, vigilant, and uncompromising in enforcing the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all international conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory,’ the Controller stated.

He further urged legitimate importers and exporters to adhere strictly to trade regulations and ensure accurate declarations in all documentation.

The Controller expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for their continuous support, as well as to the media for their sustained role in public sensitisation on compliance and patriotism.

In closing, the Controller commended the gallant officers and men of Tin Can Island Port Command for their professionalism and dedication, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to leveraging intelligence, technology, and inter-agency cooperation to secure Nigeria’s maritime borders and bring offenders to justice.

Receiving the seized items, the Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Tincan Strategic Command, Commander Daniel Onyishi, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance and commitment in intercepting the illicit drugs. He noted that the handover reflects the strong spirit of collaboration between both agencies in safeguarding the nation against the menace of drug trafficking.

Commander Onyishi emphasised that the NDLEA remains resolute in carrying out its mandate to ensure that all seized substances are thoroughly investigated and disposed of in accordance with established legal procedures.

He further reaffirmed the Agency’s readiness to strengthen existing partnerships with the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies in the collective pursuit of a drug-free Nigeria.