The Nigerian Postal Service has pledged tough action against courier companies implicated in the transportation of illicit drugs and other contraband through the country’s logistics networks.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Franklin Alao, NIPOST’s Director of Corporate Communications, criticized a recent media report headlined, “Nigerian courier services easily transporting hard drugs since Tinubu became president – NIPOST.” The agency described the headline as misleading, false, and potentially harmful to national security efforts.
“This is categorically FALSE,” the statement said. “At no point has NIPOST made such a statement or associated these activities with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
NIPOST stressed its commitment to a transparent and accountable regulatory framework and denounced the report as sensational and irresponsible. The agency warned that misleading claims on issues as sensitive as drug trafficking could undermine national efforts to sanitize the courier and logistics sector.
Reiterating its position, NIPOST firmly condemned the use of courier services for illicit purposes, including drug trafficking. It emphasized a zero-tolerance stance toward the misuse of postal services for criminal activities and highlighted its ongoing efforts to clean up the industry.
The agency noted that it has launched a series of initiatives aimed at tightening oversight, including a revalidation exercise for all courier operators. This includes strict enforcement of Know-Your-Customer protocols and compliance audits to ensure greater accountability within the sector.
NIPOST also revealed that it is working closely with key law enforcement and regulatory bodies—such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Customs Service—to investigate and dismantle networks exploiting courier systems for illegal activities.
Additionally, the agency said it is strengthening industry-wide cooperation by engaging with courier firms, transport unions, and logistics associations to bolster vigilance and promote the prompt reporting of suspicious packages.
As part of its reforms, NIPOST disclosed the rollout of a new Digital Postcode and Parcel Identification System designed to improve traceability, reduce anonymity, and enhance parcel screening processes across all stages of delivery.
“The Nigerian Postal Service is fully committed to restoring the integrity of Nigeria’s courier and logistics industry,” the statement said. “Any operator found to be involved in criminal activity will face immediate regulatory sanctions, including license suspension or revocation, and be reported to appropriate authorities for prosecution.”
