Nigeria, US and UK launch joint investigation into $235 million cocaine shipment

Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced a joint investigation with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) following the seizure of 1,000 kilograms of cocaine at Lagos’ Tincan Island Port.

The consignment, valued at over ₦338 billion ($235 million), was discovered in an empty container during routine port operations. NDLEA officials said the shipment represents one of the largest cocaine seizures ever recorded at the port.

NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) emphasized the need for international cooperation, stating that the collaboration aims to “ensure no stone is left unturned in bringing the masterminds to justice wherever they are located.”

The investigation is ongoing, with officers from the US-DEA and UK-NCA working alongside NDLEA operatives in Lagos to trace the cartel behind the massive shipment. Preliminary reports suggest the consignment was part of a sophisticated operation, hidden to evade detection.

The seizure highlights Nigeria’s growing role in global drug trafficking networks. While the country has traditionally been a transit hub, authorities are increasingly concerned about its potential emergence as a production and distribution center.

NDLEA has previously intercepted other large drug shipments and recently arrested a suspect linked to a synthetic cannabis lab in Lagos. Officials warn that dismantling international drug cartels requires sustained cross-border cooperation.

Authorities say the investigation will focus on both local operatives and international masterminds, aiming to disrupt the cartel’s operations and prevent future trafficking.