The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized goods worth N93.03 million in Adamawa State within six weeks under Operation Whirlwind, Zone ‘D’ Axis, as part of intensified efforts to curb illegal exportation of petroleum products and safeguard national security. The operation, which targeted smuggling syndicates across key border routes, recorded 47 seizures in locations including Mubi-Sahuda, Farang-Belel, Gurin-Fufore, Maiha, Mubi, and Pariya-Wuro Bokki. The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Mr. Abubakar Aliyu, made the announcement during a news conference in Yola on Friday, representing the Comptroller-General, Dr. Bashir Adeniyi.
The seized items include 64,410 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, hidden in 2,550 Jerry cans of 25 litres each. Also intercepted were three drums of 220 litres each, along with two vehicles used to transport the fuel for illegal export. On April 15, operatives stopped a DAF tanker carrying 50,000 litres of PMS along the Mubi-Uba road, suspected of diverting fuel from legitimate channels. The tanker has been handed over to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for further investigation and action.
Aliyu emphasized that the operation is intelligence-driven and conducted under the provisions of the NCS Act, 2023, particularly Sections 150, 248, 250, and 226, which empower customs officers to patrol and seize contraband. He noted that smuggling persists due to significant price disparities between Nigeria and neighbouring countries like Cameroon and Benin Republic, which incentivize illicit exports for profit. Despite the deregulation of the petroleum sector, the government remains committed to maintaining market stability and national security.
The seized petroleum products will be auctioned in accordance with the law, with proceeds remitted to the Federation Account. Aliyu commended the Office of the National Security Adviser, NMDPRA, and other security agencies for their collaboration in the operation. He urged the public to support the fight against smuggling by reporting suspicious activities to security agencies. He also called on the media to educate Nigerians on the economic and security risks posed by smuggling.
The successful seizures underscore the NCS’s resolve to dismantle smuggling networks and reduce illegal activities to the barest minimum. As the government continues to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, Operation Whirlwind remains a critical tool in protecting Nigeria’s economic interests and ensuring energy security for all citizens.
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