Nigeria Customs Seizes Expired Pharmaceutical Products Worth N130 Million at Kirikiri Lighter Terminal

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Command, has intercepted two 40-foot containers filled with expired pharmaceutical products, estimated at N130 million in Duty Paid Value (DPV). The development was announced by the Customs Area Controller, KLT Command, Comptroller Eghosa Edelduok, during a media briefing in Lagos over the weekend, where she also presented the Command’s performance report for the first half of 2025.

According to Edelduok, the seizure underscores the Command’s determination to protect the health and safety of Nigerians, while also enforcing strict compliance with the nation’s import regulations. The intercepted containers, identified with the numbers HLBU 1067338 and HLBU 2239792, were confiscated by the enforcement team during ongoing anti-smuggling operations.

She explained that the importation of such goods directly contravenes the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and violates other established import laws. The expired drugs, she confirmed, have since been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for necessary investigation and further action.

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“This seizure is a strong message that the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command has zero tolerance for illegal importation and infractions. Our priority is to safeguard public health and ensure that the Nigerian market is not infiltrated with harmful substances,” she stated.

Comptroller Edelduok emphasized that the interception of expired pharmaceutical products reflects the seriousness with which the Command approaches its statutory responsibilities. She maintained that such enforcement actions are critical in protecting citizens from potential health hazards posed by substandard or expired drugs.

She added that the success of this operation highlights the growing synergy between the Nigeria Customs Service and other regulatory bodies, particularly the NDLEA. “The handover of these expired pharmaceuticals to NDLEA is part of our collaborative framework, which ensures that intercepted contraband items are properly investigated and disposed of in accordance with the law,” she explained.

Edelduok further noted that the Command’s enforcement strategies are not just about revenue collection but are equally directed at securing Nigeria’s borders, maintaining trade integrity, and ensuring that only safe, legitimate goods enter the country.

Beyond enforcement, the Customs Area Controller also shared impressive details about the Command’s revenue generation. From January to June 2025, the KLT Command raked in N89.2 billion, representing a significant 63 percent increase over the N54.8 billion recorded during the corresponding period in 2024.

She attributed this remarkable growth to a combination of focused reforms, targeted enforcement strategies, and robust stakeholder engagement. According to her, these measures have collectively improved compliance levels, streamlined operations, and strengthened overall revenue mobilization for the federal government.

“The difference of N34.4 billion in revenue compared to last year is a reflection of enhanced operational efficiency and our officers’ commitment to excellence,” she remarked. “This growth validates our strategies and motivates us to continue improving our processes.”

Edelduok emphasized that transparency, accountability, and professionalism remain central to the Command’s operations. She pledged that the Customs Service at Kirikiri would continue to prioritize efficiency, fairness, and compliance in its dealings with importers, agents, and other stakeholders.

Acknowledging the role of stakeholders in achieving these results, Edelduok commended industry players and partner agencies for their cooperation. She described their support as invaluable, stressing that sustainable progress could only be achieved through collaboration.

“We recognize that effective trade facilitation requires constant engagement with stakeholders. Their support has been crucial in achieving our revenue targets and in ensuring that our enforcement actions are well-coordinated and impactful,” she said.

She also assured stakeholders that the Command remains committed to balancing trade facilitation with enforcement. According to her, this approach will encourage legitimate business while discouraging illegal practices that could harm the economy or endanger public safety.

Comptroller Edelduok reiterated that the KLT Command’s mission aligns with the broader goals of the Nigeria Customs Service—protecting national security, promoting economic growth, and safeguarding public health. She stressed that the Command would not relent in its drive to enforce the law, generate revenue, and protect Nigerians from harmful imports.

“We are dedicated to service excellence and national interest. Every action we take is geared towards building a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Nigeria,” she concluded.

The seizure of expired pharmaceutical products worth N130 million not only demonstrates the vigilance of the Nigeria Customs Service but also reinforces its role as a critical defender of public health and national security. With strengthened enforcement strategies, improved compliance, and robust stakeholder collaboration, the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command is positioning itself as a model of efficiency and accountability within the Service.