The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched a high-level joint investigation with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (US-DEA) and the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (UK-NCA) following the recovery of 1,000 kilograms of cocaine from a container at the PTML Terminal of the Tincan Island Port, Lagos.
The massive haul, valued at over $235 million (₦338 billion) on the international market, marks one of the largest single seizures of cocaine in Nigeria’s history.
According to the Director, Media & Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, the illicit consignment was first discovered by PTML operators in an empty container last weekend, prompting the invitation of key port stakeholders, including NDLEA, Nigeria Customs Service, and other security agencies, for a joint examination. Field tests conducted by NDLEA operatives confirmed the substance to be cocaine.
Following collaborative engagements between NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Comptroller General of Customs, Dr. Adewale Adeniyi, the shipment was formally transferred to NDLEA custody on Tuesday, 11th November 2025, for comprehensive investigation.
Given the magnitude of the seizure and its international links, Gen. Marwa immediately ordered the involvement of the Agency’s leading global partners to ensure a thorough probe. In swift response, operatives of the US-DEA and UK-NCA have joined the ongoing investigation to uncover the cartel behind the shipment.
“The essence of collaborating with our international partners on this case is to ensure no stone is left unturned and every gap is sufficiently covered so that ultimately we can get all the masterminds of this huge consignment brought to book—wherever they are across the globe,” Marwa stated.
“This joint operation follows excellent personal engagement between myself and the Customs CG on this case,” he added.
The NDLEA reiterated its commitment to intensifying inter-agency and international cooperation to dismantle transnational drug cartels and protect Nigeria’s borders from illicit drug trade.
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