NIPOST Denies Drug Trafficking Claims, Distances Agency from Tinubu Link

The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has issued a strong denial regarding a recent media report that falsely attributed comments to the agency suggesting courier services were being used to traffic hard drugs since the start of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement released on July 6, 2025, the agency’s Director of Corporate Communications, Femi Atoyebi, clarified that NIPOST never made such claims and that the publication was both misleading and damaging.

NIPOST described the report as completely false and expressed disappointment over the attempt to link its regulatory oversight to unfounded allegations. According to the agency, at no point did it issue a statement associating drug trafficking through courier channels with the current administration.

As the regulator of Nigeria’s courier and logistics sector, NIPOST stated that it has been working proactively with relevant agencies—including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Nigeria Police, and the Nigerian Customs Service—to combat illegal use of delivery platforms.

The agency is currently enforcing strict compliance protocols, including enhanced Know-Your-Customer (KYC) processes, more rigorous audits, and improved staff training across licensed courier operators. Companies found violating regulations face the risk of license suspension or revocation and possible criminal prosecution.

In a bid to further tighten monitoring, NIPOST revealed that it is implementing a Digital Postage and Parcel Identification System that tracks every parcel from sender to recipient. The new technology is expected to improve traceability and reduce the chances of criminal exploitation of postal channels.

In addition to inter-agency cooperation, NIPOST has partnered with private courier companies, transport unions, and logistics stakeholders to strengthen information sharing and bolster nationwide surveillance against suspicious packages.

While addressing the misinformation, NIPOST also called on the media and civil society groups to engage in more responsible reporting. It urged the public to remain vigilant and support efforts aimed at maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s postal and logistics systems by reporting unusual or suspicious activities.