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International cooperation

APM Terminals and NDLEA Join Forces to Combat Drug Abuse and Trafficking in Nigerian Ports

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Nigeria's port corridors, particularly in Apapa and Tin Can Island, have seen a surge in drug trafficking with over 30 tons of illicit drugs seized by the NDLEA. APM Terminals, a leading global terminal operator, has joined forces with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to combat this issue. The collaboration was announced as part of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Apapa Command of the NDLEA has successfully intercepted 14 containers laden with psychotropic substances, including 744,635 bottles of codeine-based syrup and 36,652,460 tablets of tramadol, weighing a combined 132 tonnes.
  • The NDLEA's Tin Can Strategic Command has seized over 30 tons of illicit drugs, including amphetamines, tramadol, codeine, and cocaine, within the past year.
  • APM Terminals enforces a strict zero-drug-and-alcohol policy and is keen on collaborating further with the NDLEA to strengthen port safety protocols.
  • The collaboration between APM Terminals and NDLEA aims to break the cycle of drug addiction and investment in prevention, building resilient societies through education, healthcare, justice, and social development.
  • The event highlighted a united front in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking, blending government enforcement with private sector advocacy.

Statistics:

  • 744,635 bottles of codeine-based syrup were intercepted by the NDLEA in Apapa.
  • 36,652,460 tablets of tramadol were intercepted by the NDLEA in Apapa.
  • The total weight of the intercepted psychotropic substances in Apapa was 132 tonnes.
  • Over 30 tons of illicit drugs were seized by the NDLEA's Tin Can Strategic Command.
  • Ibrahim Buba Wakawa, Assistant Comptroller General of Narcotics, NDLEA, revealed that the Apapa Command had successfully intercepted 14 containers laden with psychotropic substances.

Sources:

  • 'The Evidence Is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Cycle' (Theme of the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking)
  • APM Terminals (Represented by Emmanuel Uko, Health and Safety Executive)
  • National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)

(National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Apapa Strategic Command and Commander)

  • International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (Commemorated annually on June 26)

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