The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant breakthrough in its efforts to combat fuel smuggling, intercepting 916 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at ₦22.9 million in Adamawa State.
The seizure was carried out by Operation Whirlwind, a special task force set up by the NCS to tackle fuel smuggling. The operation was executed at key flashpoints in Maiha, Mubi, Gurin, and Belel.
According to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, the seized kegs contained 25 liters of PMS each, totaling 22,900 liters. This latest interception follows another major seizure on the Taraba axis, where 1,149 jerrycans of PMS were confiscated, totaling 34,470 liters.
The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Hussein Ejibunu, described the operation as intelligence-driven and precise. He emphasized the NCS’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s resources and ensuring compliance with trade regulations.
Ejibunu noted that fuel smuggling remains a significant challenge, driven by economic disparities and the lure of quick profits. However, he assured that the NCS is resolute in dismantling fuel smuggling networks and bringing economic saboteurs to justice.
The Customs Area Controller for Adamawa/Taraba, Comptroller Garba Bashir, commended Operation Whirlwind’s efforts in curtailing fuel smuggling in the area. He noted that these efforts have significantly assisted the command in reducing fuel smuggling.
A representative of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Grace Dauda, praised the NCS for its determined fight against fuel smuggling. She called for cooperation from other stakeholders and the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest Customs office.
The NCS has reiterated its call for a collective effort to tackle smuggling and ensure economic stability. The agency has assured that it will continue to work tirelessly to protect Nigeria’s economic sovereignty.