There a significant move against fuel smuggling, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its efforts through Operation Whirlwind, resulting in the interception of 916 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at approximately N22.9 million. This operation carried out at strategic locations in Maiha, Mubi, Gurin, and Belel, was announced during a press briefing on Friday.
A Strategic Approach to Fuel Smuggling
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented by Assistant Comptroller-General Hussein Ejibunu, confirmed that each intercepted keg contains 25 litres of PMS, totalling 22,900 litres. ACG Ejibunu highlighted that the operation was driven by intelligence and executed with precision, underscoring the NCS’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s resources and ensuring adherence to trade regulations.
This recent success follows another major interception on March 13, 2025, at the Taraba axis, where officials seized 1,149 jerrycans of PMS in Gembu, totalling 34,470 litres.
A Unified Effort Against Economic Sabotage
The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind emphasized the organization’s ongoing determination to combat fuel smuggling—an issue that poses threats to Nigeria’s economy and security. He stated, “The relentless efforts of Operation Whirlwind have once again yielded significant results. This interception represents a victory not just for the Customs Service, but for our collective fight against smuggling.”
ACG Ejibunu credited the effective collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for these successful outcomes. He acknowledged the economic disparities and the allure of quick profits behind fuel smuggling but reaffirmed the NCS’s resolve to dismantle these networks.
In a show of appreciation, he praised the officers involved in the operation, saying, “Your bravery, vigilance, and professionalism inspire confidence in our ability to protect Nigeria’s economic sovereignty.”
Community Involvement is Key
Comptroller Garba Bashir, the Customs Area Controller for Adamawa/Taraba, further commended Operation Whirlwind for its significant impact on curbing petroleum product smuggling in the region. He noted that these efforts have been crucial in reducing illegal activities.
Grace Dauda, a representative from the NMDPRA, also applauded the NCS for its strong stance against fuel smuggling and called for collaboration among stakeholders and residents of Adamawa State. She reaffirmed the commitment of both NMDPRA and NCS to enforce government policies, leveraging technology, intelligence, and inter-agency cooperation in the fight against smuggling.
Nigeria Customs Service continues its vigorous crackdown on fuel smuggling, they also urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest Customs office. This is a crucial step in fostering a collective effort to tackle smuggling and ensure economic stability across the nation.
With ongoing efforts like Operation Whirlwind, Nigeria steps closer to dismantling illicit fuel trade networks and safeguarding its economic interests for a more secure futu
