NDLEA Warns Over Cannabis-Infused Cookies, Gummies In Circulation

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned Nigerians about cannabis-infused cookies and gummies allegedly being circulated in the country.

The agency advised parents and guardians to closely monitor the snacks consumed by children, particularly imported cookies and sweets that could contain dangerous or illegal substances.

The NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday.

According to him, the agency uncovered attempts by suspected smugglers to bring prohibited substances into Nigeria disguised as ordinary sweets and baked products.

Babafemi said the Nigeria Customs Service recently intercepted two 40-foot containers at the Tin Can Island Port in Lagos.

The containers, which originated from the United States, reportedly contained legitimate goods such as vehicles, generators and fabrics.

However, officials also discovered thousands of cookies and gummies allegedly infused with cannabis.

The seized products are estimated to have a street value of N373.8 million.

The items have since been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation.

The agency said the cannabis-infused products were packaged as colourful and attractive vegan snacks, raising concerns that children and young people could consume them accidentally without knowing that they contain illegal substances.

The NDLEA urged parents to be more careful when purchasing imported snacks for their children and to pay attention to product labels and packaging.

The agency also warned that the attractive appearance of such products does not necessarily mean they are safe for consumption.

The latest seizure highlights growing concerns over attempts to disguise illegal drugs as ordinary food products and introduce them into the Nigerian market.

Parents and members of the public are therefore advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious products or activities to the appropriate authorities.