In a decisive move against drug smuggling and pharmaceutical abuse, Nigerian authorities have destroyed 491,000 high-strength Tramadol tablets seized at the northern border.
The operation, conducted by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in Kano on Wednesday, targeted Tramadol 225mg—a powerful opioid frequently misused across West Africa.
Dr Martins Iluyomade, NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, led the destruction exercise on behalf of the agency’s Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye.
The seizure was made possible through a joint operation with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), whose Kano/Jigawa Command intercepted the drugs at the Mai Gatari border near Niger Republic.
“The smugglers abandoned the consignment when challenged by Customs officers. It consisted of 491 rolls, equivalent to 491,000 tablets, with an estimated duty value of ₦91 million,” said Prof. Adeyeye.
She praised the Customs unit, led by Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, for their swift and effective action, describing the event as a testament to successful inter-agency collaboration.
NAFDAC warned that Tramadol in such high dosage is unapproved in Nigeria due to its addictive potential and links to substance abuse, particularly among young people.
“The health of Nigerians remains our top priority,” Adeyeye stated. “We urge the public to report any suspicious activities involving pharmaceuticals so we can act promptly.”
The incident has reignited calls for tighter border controls and greater investment in cross-border intelligence to stem the flow of unauthorised medications into the country.
