…Operation Whirlwind Seizes 28,300 Litres of PMS Worth N35.8 Million
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has issued a stern warning to fuel smugglers, assuring them of intensified crackdowns as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) strengthens efforts to curb the illegal trade.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, Adeniyi disclosed that officers of Operation Whirlwind recently intercepted 28,300 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), valued at N35.8 million, along the Lagos-Ogun border region.
He emphasized the economic threat posed by fuel smuggling, describing it as an attempt to undermine Nigeria’s energy security. “What we are witnessing is not just routine customs violations but a systematic attempt to weaken Nigeria’s economic foundations through the diversion of strategic national resources,” Adeniyi stated.
Providing an update on the impact of Operation Whirlwind, he revealed that in under three months, officers have seized a total of 245,370 litres of PMS worth N238.14 million, excluding the latest interception and those made by regular commands and Federal Operations Units.
According to Adeniyi, intelligence-driven operations conducted between January 11 and February 23, 2025, led to the interception of fuel hidden using various smuggling techniques. The recent seizures include 1,132 jerrycans of 25 litres each, transported using three vehicles—two Toyota Camry cars and a Volkswagen.
Highlighting the major smuggling routes, he noted that:
– The Badagry-Seme axis accounted for 35% of the seizures.
– The Imeko-Afon axis in Ogun State recorded 25%, becoming an emerging hotspot.
– The Ilaro-Ojodan network contributed 22%, increasingly active due to its remote location.
– The Owode-Ajilete route made up 18%, where smugglers exploited gaps in enforcement.
Adeniyi assured that Customs is evolving its strategies to counter smuggling activities effectively. “Let me be clear: there will be no safe haven for smugglers in our operational areas. We shall continue to adapt our strategies, deploy additional resources, and adopt even more stringent measures to ensure that petroleum products meant for domestic consumption are secured for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he declared.
He also commended the efforts of the Operation Whirlwind team, led by ACG Hussein Ejibunu, for their dedication in tackling fuel smuggling despite operational challenges.
The NCS remains committed to enforcing strict measures to combat fuel diversion and protect Nigeria’s economic interests.