The Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria has pledged to join the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in combating drug abuse across the country. In a statement, the association’s chairman, Vicky Haastrup, made the commitment while hosting NDLEA’s Apapa Special Area Command Commander, Udotong Noah. Haastrup assured the NDLEA chief of the association’s support in the fight against the importation and use of illicit drugs.
She emphasized that the NDLEA must receive backing from all well‑meaning stakeholders to curb the production, importation, exportation, sale and trafficking of psychoactive substances. Haastrup commended the Apapa Special Area Command for its vigilance at Nigeria’s seaports, preventing illicit drugs from entering society. She called for greater education of port users, truck drivers and conductors about the dangers of drugs and substance abuse, noting that these issues have ruined many lives and caused catastrophic effects in numerous homes.
“The task of making Nigeria drug‑free is the responsibility of all Nigerians. NDLEA is doing a lot of work to stop the importation and exportation of illicit drugs, and it has also been effective in curbing drug abuse, especially among youths. All of us, both at the corporate and individual levels, must join hands with NDLEA to put a decisive end to this dangerous menace,” Haastrup said.
She added, “I want to assure you that all terminal operators will continue to support you and the Nigeria Customs Service in intercepting illicit imports into Nigeria. We will not allow unscrupulous elements to use our ports as gateways for their illicit trade.”
Earlier, Commander Noah explained that his visit to the association was intended to solicit the support of terminal operators in fighting illicit drug importation and abuse around the port area.
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