Lilian Ugwu
The Nigeria Customs Service has intensified its war against fuel smuggling, intercepting 43,750 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in a major enforcement operation across border communities in Kwara State.
The seizure, carried out under the special anti-smuggling initiative, Operation Whirlwind, highlights growing concerns over the illegal diversion of petroleum products and its impact on Nigeria’s economy.
Speaking during a public auction held in Ilorin, the National Coordinator of the operation, Abubakar Aliyu, disclosed that the fuel was recovered following credible intelligence targeting smuggling networks operating along the Niger-Kwara corridor.
According to him, operatives intercepted 1,510 jerrycans of 25 litres each and 30 drums of 200 litres, bringing the total estimated value of the seized PMS to N43.75 million.
Aliyu described the operation as a strategic move to protect national resources and prevent economic losses linked to cross-border fuel diversion.
“This operation underscores our commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s resources and ensuring they are used for the benefit of citizens,” he said.
Border Communities Identified as Smuggling Hotspots
The Customs Service revealed that the seizures were made across multiple smuggling flashpoints, including Kaima, Shiya, Kenu, Boriya, Luma, Bokuru-Baruten, Ilesha-Baruba, Taberu, and Salla-Gwanara in Kwara State.
Authorities say these locations have become key transit routes for smugglers attempting to move subsidized fuel out of the country.
Fuel Smuggling Threatens Economy and Supply Chain
Aliyu warned that the illegal trade in petroleum products remains a serious economic threat, contributing to fuel scarcity, price hikes, and revenue losses.
“Fuel smuggling is not just an illegal activity; it is economic sabotage. It disrupts supply, inflates prices, and strengthens criminal networks that undermine national security,” he stated.
He noted that tackling the menace requires sustained enforcement and intelligence-driven operations.
Security Agencies Strengthen Collaboration
The Customs Service credited the success of the operation to collaboration with key government agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser led by Nuhu Ribadu, as well as the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
Aliyu also commended the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for strengthening enforcement strategies nationwide.
Customs Issues Fresh Warning to Smugglers
Reaffirming the agency’s stance, Aliyu warned that security forces would continue to identify and dismantle smuggling networks across Nigeria’s borders.
“The era of impunity is over. We remain proactive and intelligence-driven in tracking smugglers wherever they operate,” he said.
Call for Public Support
Customs officials urged residents of border communities to support enforcement efforts by providing timely and credible intelligence.
Also speaking, Deputy Comptroller Najeem Ogundeyi emphasized that inter-agency collaboration remains critical to sustaining progress.
He noted that stronger partnerships among security agencies and stakeholders would further enhance efforts to combat illicit trade and stabilize the economy.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.