Korede Abdullah in Lagos
In a decisive move against fuel smuggling, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at over ₦63 million along the Lagos-Ogun border.
Under the coordinated efforts of Operation Whirlwind, operatives seized 1,577 jerrycans—amounting to 39,425 litres of PMS—and eight vehicles across notorious smuggling routes including Ilaro, Imeko, Badagry, Owode, and Ajilete.
The National Coordinator of the operation, Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) Hussein Ejibunu, made the announcement during a press briefing at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, Lagos, on Friday.
“There is no safe haven for smugglers or economic saboteurs. We will continue to disrupt their activities and reduce them to the barest minimum,” Ejibunu stated, emphasizing the crackdown’s intent to curtail illicit exports to neighboring Benin Republic.
The seized fuel, valued at ₦39.4 million, and vehicles worth ₦24 million, mark a significant operational victory. To maximize public benefit, the fuel will be auctioned immediately at a subsidised rate of ₦10,000 per jerrycan, following approval from the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
ACG Ejibunu credited the operation’s success to the resilience and dedication of the Customs personnel, highlighting the strides made within just one year of Operation Whirlwind.
“This is due to the commitment, discipline, and resilience of the operatives,” he said. Supporting the initiative, Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘A’, ACG Charles Orbih, added, “This landmark achievement reflects the determination and unwavering commitment of our officers to safeguarding Nigeria’s economic and national security.”
The operation continues to receive backing from key stakeholders, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, NMDPRA, and the Attorney General’s Office.
