The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) said the Operation Whirlwind launched recently to combat fuel smuggling across the country’s borders has already yielded significant results, with substantial seizures of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at N153.157.560 Million.
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this in a press conference organised by the NCS in Yola, Adamawa State capital
He noted that the operation has made 27 seizures and detected smuggling networks in Badagry and Adamawa since its inception on May 28, 2024
The CGC who was represented at event by Deputy comptroller General in charge of reinforcement, inspection and investigation, Olaniyi Olajogun, said the
NCS has also collaborated with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited to strengthen its efforts against fuel smuggling.
He added some notable seizures made by the NCS include two trucks with 33,000 litres capacity each, filled with PMS , 1,046 Jerricans of 25 litres capacity each, filled with PMS 12 drums of 200 litres capacity each, filled with PMS all intended for smuggling
He said One suspect was apprehended in connection with these smuggling activities and he is cooling at custody of the NCS in Abuja.
According to the CGC, the NCS has also engaged with stakeholders, including the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Agency (NMDPRA), and security agencies, to combat fuel smuggling ¹. Industry stakeholders, such as the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), and Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), have also committed to supporting the operation.
He said the NCS has reassured its commitment to reinvigorating collaboration with the NNPC to effectively combat fuel smuggling ². The Comptroller-General of Customs has emphasised the need for continued effort in the fight against smuggling, stating that the NCS will not spare any effort in combating the menace.
The CGC said despite the progress made, the NCS faces challenges in sustaining the operation, including funding constraints and hence he appealed for funding collaboration to support the operation.
He further revealed that the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has blamed petroleum smuggling for Nigeria’s economic woes, including the instability of the Naira ¹. He emphasised that addressing smuggling is crucial to resolving the country’s economic challenges.
“The NCS has urged stakeholders to continue supporting its efforts to combat fuel smuggling. The operation’s success depends on collective action and cooperation among law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and citizens.”
“The NCS plans to engage with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of compliance with customs regulations. This effort aims to build a stronger and more resilient economy.”
“The stakeholders have committed to developing a sustainable anti-smuggling strategy, including enhancing the legal framework to combat fuel smuggling.
“The Nigeria Customs Service’s “Operation Whirlwind” has made significant progress in combating fuel smuggling. With continued collaboration and commitment from stakeholders, the operation is poised to yield more successes, ultimately contributing to Nigeria’s economic stability.” he said
Daji Sani
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