Terminal operator moves to tackle drug trafficking at seaports

APM Terminals Apapa has pledged it would assist the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in curbing drug abuse and illicit trafficking at seaports.

The terminal operator made this commitment during a lecture in Lagos with the theme, ‘The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention’.The Manager of Health, Safety, and Environment for APM Terminals Apapa, Felix Ugwuagbo, stated that the operator will partner the NDLEA to raise awareness about the negative effects of illicit drugs on society.

He said the terminal had a strict policy against the use of illicit drugs by employees, contractors, and truckers who visit the facility, as this could endanger safe operations.

According to him, to combat this scourge, there is a need for evidence-based policies rooted in science, human rights, compassion, and knowledge

“This lecture is a great opportunity to educate the Apapa community and other stakeholders about the negative impact illicit drug use has on individuals, families, and communities,” he said.

The NDLEA Commander of Apapa Special Area Command, Udotong Essien, noted: “It is important that we do drug abuse prevention through awareness and public education.”

Also, the Customs Area Controller of the Apapa Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Babatunde Olomu, reiterated the command’s continuous support in the fight against drug trafficking. and appealed to stakeholders to support the NDLEA in achieving a drug-free society.