Customs seize N720m worth of tramadol, indian hemp in Katsina

The Katsina Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted large quantities of illicit drugs valued at N720 million, including thousands of Tramadol tablets and wraps of Indian hemp.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC I Ballo Isah, disclosed this on Monday during a send-off ceremony held in honour of the outgoing Customs Area Comptroller (CAC), Idris Abba-Aji.

Abba-Aji, who assumed leadership of the command 16 months ago, has been redeployed to the NCS headquarters in Abuja following his promotion to the rank of Assistant Comptroller General (ACG).

According to Isah, the command seized 698,600 tablets of Tramadol and 174 wraps of Indian hemp shortly before Abba-Aji’s redeployment. He described the seizure as a testament to the command’s sustained vigilance.

“The command recently recorded a remarkable interception of 698,600 Tramadol tablets and 174 wraps of Indian hemp worth N720 million.

“This reflects our unwavering commitment to combating smuggling and other illegal activities,” he said.

Isah highlighted several achievements recorded under Abba-Aji’s leadership, particularly in strengthening Customs–community relations and enhancing the command’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

He noted that before Abba-Aji’s tenure, Katsina Command was often associated with tensions between customs officers and border communities. However, the outgoing CAC leveraged his knowledge of the terrain to minimize conflicts and build trust.

As part of his CSR efforts, Abba-Aji sponsored free medical care for pupils of Hassan Usman Science Model Primary School and donated instructional materials to support their learning.

He also led sensitization campaigns in schools to enlighten students about the dangers of smuggling and other transnational crimes.

Abba-Aji equally upgraded several facilities within the command, including the renovation of structures and the construction of a modern conference hall, photo stand, canteen, and improved Quarter Guard facilities.

He also embarked on a seven-day assessment tour of all border stations under the command to strengthen ties with sister agencies, stakeholders, and host communities.

In his response, the outgoing CAC thanked the officers and men of the command for honouring him and pledged to maintain ties even after his redeployment.

He urged his successor to remain committed and diligent.

Born in 1967 and hailing from Borno State, Abba-Aji has served in various Customs formations in Abuja, Lagos, and Borno.

He headed the Katsina Command from July 2024 to November 2025 and is a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Administration (FCIA).