The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has strongly denied claims reported in a recent publication by The Peoples’ Gazette, which suggested the agency confirmed that Nigerian courier services have been used to transport hard drugs since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office.
In a public statement signed by Franklin Alao, NIPOST Director of Corporate Communications, NIPOST expressed deep disappointment at what it described as a “misleading headline”, saying it falsely attributed the allegations to the agency and misrepresented its position.
“This is categorically FALSE,” the statement read. “At no point has NIPOST made such a statement or associated these activities with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
NIPOST emphasized that it has a zero-tolerance policy toward the use of postal and courier services for narcotics trafficking or any form of illegal activity. The agency also criticized the dissemination of inaccurate and sensational reporting on issues related to national security, warning that such actions undermine public trust and efforts to clean up the courier sector.
Measures to Strengthen Sector Oversight
Reaffirming its role as the regulator of Nigeria’s courier industry, NIPOST outlined several ongoing and upcoming initiatives aimed at curbing illicit activities within the sector:
Stricter Licensing and Compliance Audits: NIPOST is currently revalidating courier licenses and enforcing Know-Your-Customer (KYC) protocols across all registered operators.
Security Collaboration: The agency is working closely with the NDLEA, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Customs Service, and other security bodies to detect and prevent illegal shipments.
Stakeholder Engagement: NIPOST is also engaging with transport unions and courier associations to improve awareness, reporting, and surveillance.
Digital Tracking Solutions: The rollout of a Digital Postcode and Parcel Identification System is underway, aimed at ensuring traceability and deterring anonymous parcel delivery.
Public Appeal
NIPOST urged Nigerians to use only licensed courier operators and report any suspicious activity. It also called on the media and civil society groups to prioritize accuracy and cooperation in efforts to safeguard the industry.
“Any operator found to be involved in criminal activity will face immediate regulatory sanctions, including license suspension or revocation,” the agency warned.
For reports or inquiries, the public is advised to contact NIPOST directly or report to relevant law enforcement authorities.
