In a renewed offensive against fuel smuggling, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 916 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at ₦22.9 million in Adamawa State. The operation, conducted under the special task force Operation Whirlwind, targeted smuggling hotspots in Maiha, Mubi, Gurin, and Belel.
Announcing the seizure during a press briefing on March 14, 2025, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented by the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Assistant Comptroller-General Hussein Ejibunu, disclosed that the confiscated PMS, stored in 25-litre kegs, totaled 22,900 litres.
Ejibunu emphasized that the operation was intelligence-driven and executed with precision, reflecting the Customs Service’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s resources and enforcing trade regulations. He highlighted that this latest interception follows another major seizure on March 13 in Gembu, Taraba State, where 1,149 jerrycans of PMS (34,470 litres) were confiscated.
He reaffirmed the agency’s determination to dismantle smuggling networks, stating, “The relentless efforts of Operation Whirlwind continue to yield significant results. This interception is a testament to our intelligence-driven strategy and the strong collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).”
Commending the officers involved, Ejibunu praised their bravery and professionalism, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Also speaking, the Customs Area Controller for Adamawa/Taraba, Comptroller Garba Bashir, lauded Operation Whirlwind for its role in curbing fuel smuggling in the region.
A representative of the NMDPRA, Grace Dauda, also commended the Nigeria Customs Service’s proactive stance, urged continued inter-agency cooperation and public support in tackling smuggling. She reaffirmed the commitment of NMDPRA to enforcing government policies through technology and intelligence-driven strategies.
With fuel smuggling posing a persistent threat to Nigeria’s economy and security, the Customs Service has reiterated its resolve to combat the illicit trade, ensuring that economic saboteurs face justice.
