From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its anti-smuggling operations in the northeastern region, intercepting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and vehicles with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) exceeding ₦63 million.
The seizures were made under Operation Whirlwind, a strategic enforcement initiative aimed at curbing the smuggling of PMS across Nigeria’s borders.
Announcing the development during a press briefing at the Customs House in Yola, Adamawa State, on Friday, May 23, 2025, the National Coordinator of the operation, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) Hussein Ejibunu—representing the Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi—said the operation was driven by intelligence-led tactics and well-coordinated enforcement within Zone D.
Ejibunu disclosed that operatives intercepted 1,959 jerry cans, totaling nearly 49,000 litres of PMS, alongside five vehicles used to transport the products. The seizures occurred along notorious smuggling corridors, including Dasin-Fufore, Belel-Farang, Mubi-Sahuda, Maiha, and Girei-Wuro Bokki.
“Smugglers fled upon sighting Customs operatives, abandoning their illicit consignments in a desperate bid to evade arrest,” he stated.
He stressed that the operation aligns with the Federal Government’s economic protection policies, guided by Comptroller-General Adeniyi and President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
According to Ejibunu, dismantling illegal fuel supply chains is critical to preventing fuel scarcity, stabilizing market prices, and safeguarding national security. “This is our contribution to protecting national resources and fostering economic resilience,” he said.
In accordance with Section 245 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, the seized petroleum products will be auctioned immediately, with the proceeds remitted into the Federation Account.
ACG Ejibunu also emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in the fight against smuggling. He urged border communities and traditional rulers to engage local youth in meaningful ventures and dissuade them from participating in smuggling, which he described as a serious economic crime.
“The fight against smuggling is not for Customs alone. It requires the partnership of communities, the media, and all relevant stakeholders,” he asserted.
He acknowledged and appreciated the support of the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the Adamawa/Taraba Area Command.
He also commended sister security agencies for their consistent cooperation throughout the operation.