Nigeria customs generates over N500m in anti-smuggling crackdown

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the recovery of over N500 million from petroleum smugglers across the country, following intensified border operations.

This significant outcome was achieved through “Operation Whirlwind,” a newly launched special task force targeting smuggling activities.

Speaking at a press briefing in Yola on Wednesday, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Controller Husaini Ejibunu, revealed that the task force seized petroleum products worth N86.7 million between October and November in Adamawa and Taraba states.

Ejibunu detailed the confiscated items, which included 1,124 jerry cans of varying capacities, 53 drums each holding 200 litres of petrol, and two fuel tankers containing 21,000 litres of petrol.

In total, 71,965 litres of petrol were seized, alongside five vehicles and two motorcycles. The smuggled products, destined for Cameroon, were intercepted by the task force.

He further reported that 14 fuel tankers loaded with petrol were stopped for diversion and smuggling, with 13 handed over to the National Mainstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in Adamawa and one in Taraba for inter-agency collaboration.

Ejibunu attributed the success of the operation to the unwavering support of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi Bashir, citing logistical backing and an enabling environment for operations.

He emphasized that the operation has led to stable petrol supplies in Adamawa State, reducing scarcity and price fluctuations.

The seized petroleum products will be auctioned to the public, with proceeds directed to the Federal Government’s account.

In his remarks, the Controller of Adamawa and Taraba Command, Garba Bashir, reiterated the command’s commitment to combating smuggling while ensuring legitimate trade thrives in the national interest.

He assured the public that the NCS remains relentless in its efforts to disrupt smuggling networks.