In a renewed effort to curb the smuggling of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) across Nigeria’s borders, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has deployed newly inducted officers to Operation Whirlwind a strategic initiative launched in May 2024 to safeguard the nation’s fuel supply chain.
The deployment was formalized during an induction ceremony held on June 3, 2025, in Abuja. The event signified a reinforced national resolve to tackle economic sabotage linked to the illegal export of subsidized fuel products.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, while addressing the new operatives, urged them to maintain integrity, professionalism, and vigilance at all times.
“We must always affirm to be above board on all matters. Ensure that your integrity is never compromised, and you are not found to have abused your position in this operation. Customs is critical to achieving the vision of fuel product availability in Nigeria,” he stated.
He further charged the officers to embrace innovation, highlighting the role of modern surveillance systems.
“Through this operation, the NCS must deliver impactful service to the nation. We want to ensure our fuel is not smuggled into neighbouring countries. Most importantly, we must leverage technology. Programmes will be organised to enable you take advantage of the Geospatial Intelligence tool while in the field.”
The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Assistant Comptroller-General Hussein Ejibunu, also addressed the operatives. He stressed that the success of the operation depends on discipline, strategic execution, and individual commitment.
Ejibunu urged the personnel to sustain the momentum that has been built since the launch of the operation.
Operation Whirlwind continue to serve as a frontline response to the economic threat posed by fuel smuggling, reinforcing the NCS’s mandate to protect Nigeria’s borders and preserve national resources.
