The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has praised the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, for his dedication to strengthening surveillance along Nigeria’s borders to combat the persistent smuggling of petroleum products. Ribadu’s commendation came during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting on Monday, September 9, 2024, at the NSA office in Abuja.

The meeting brought together key players from the petroleum sector, including representatives from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN). The discussions centered on tackling the smuggling of petroleum products, a critical issue that threatens Nigeria’s economy and security.

In his opening remarks, NSA Ribadu acknowledged the significant strides made by the Customs Service under Adeniyi’s leadership. He highlighted the crucial role the agency plays in protecting Nigeria’s borders and safeguarding the economy from the adverse effects of illegal trade. Ribadu described petroleum smuggling as a “cancer that kills,” warning that it drains vital resources needed for national development and disrupts government revenue streams.

“The nation’s security agencies must unite to address this menace,” Ribadu said, stressing the need for greater collaboration to prevent smuggling from destabilizing Nigeria’s oil sector and fueling illegal cross-border activities.

In his address, CGC Adeniyi reaffirmed the Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to its mandate, especially under the newly enacted NCS Act 2023, which empowers the agency to enforce strict measures against smuggling activities. Adeniyi also referenced recent operations spearheaded by Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, aimed at dismantling smuggling networks and securing Nigeria’s petroleum resources.

“What we are doing today reflects the good intentions of the Office of the National Security Adviser, which has provided us with a platform to execute special operations against smuggling,” Adeniyi said, adding that the Nigeria Customs Service is leveraging technology to bolster its border security efforts.

Adeniyi revealed that the Customs Service is implementing innovative tools, including real-time monitoring systems similar to those used by Dubai Customs, to track and authenticate oil and gas movements. He called for greater transparency and accountability within the petroleum supply chain, noting that while certain factors driving smuggling are beyond the agency’s control, the NCS remains resolute in its fight against illegal trade.

Comptroller Ejibunu, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, which focuses on anti-smuggling efforts, emphasized the need for enhanced inter-agency cooperation. He noted that addressing petroleum smuggling requires the collective strength of government agencies such as the NCS, NMDPRA, NNPC Ltd., and security services. Ejibunu also urged for increased funding and resources, including additional vehicles for Operation Whirlwind’s operatives, to sustain the fight against smuggling.

At the conclusion of the meeting, all stakeholders agreed to unite in their efforts to eliminate petroleum smuggling. A joint communique was signed by NSA Ribadu, CGC Adeniyi, and other key representatives, outlining resolutions aimed at curbing smuggling and safeguarding Nigeria’s economy. Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, announced the resolutions, stating that the collaboration will significantly enhance the country’s anti-smuggling operations.

This strategic meeting marks a crucial step in Nigeria’s ongoing battle to protect its borders and economy from the damaging effects of petroleum smuggling.