NDLEA Arrest Businessman with N23m Cocaine at Lagos Airport

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a businessman at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, for attempting to smuggle cocaine valued at N23 million into Nigeria.

The suspect, whose identity was withheld pending further investigation, was apprehended during routine screening of passengers arriving from South America. NDLEA officials said the illicit substance was concealed inside the suspect’s luggage in a manner designed to evade detection.

According to NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, the arrest was part of intensified surveillance operations at Nigeria’s busiest airport. He explained that officers had flagged the passenger for additional checks after observing suspicious behaviour during clearance.

“The suspect was subjected to thorough examination, and our officers discovered packages of cocaine hidden in his luggage. Preliminary assessment shows the drugs have a street value of about N23 million,” Babafemi stated.

The agency confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and will face prosecution once investigations are concluded. Officials added that the arrest underscores NDLEA’s commitment to curbing drug trafficking through Nigerian airports.

Drug enforcement experts note that Lagos airport remains a major transit point for traffickers attempting to move narcotics into West Africa. NDLEA has in recent months stepped up monitoring of inbound and outbound flights, deploying advanced scanning equipment and intelligence-led operations.

In July, NDLEA reported several arrests involving passengers carrying cocaine and heroin concealed in personal effects. The agency said traffickers often target Nigeria due to its strategic location and large market, but stressed that ongoing enforcement measures have disrupted many attempts.

Babafemi urged Nigerians to support the agency’s efforts by reporting suspicious activities. “Drug trafficking poses a serious threat to public health and national security. We call on citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement,” he said.

The latest arrest adds to NDLEA’s record of successful operations in 2026, with dozens of traffickers intercepted across airports and border points. The agency has also intensified public awareness campaigns to discourage involvement in drug-related crimes.

Authorities reiterated that the fight against narcotics requires sustained collaboration between security agencies, international partners, and the public. NDLEA said it will continue to strengthen its presence at airports and other entry points to ensure traffickers are brought to justice.