The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), through its special operation tagged “Operation Whirlwind,” has intensified its fight against economic sabotage in the Adamawa and Taraba border areas. The operation intercepted smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) worth over N86.5 million in November 2024 alone.
Briefing journalists in Yola, the Adamawa State capital, the Comptroller of the Adamawa/Taraba Command, Garba Bashir, revealed that 71,965 liters of PMS were seized during the operation. The consignment included 1,124 jerry cans of various capacities, 53 drums of 200 liters each, and 21,000 liters stored in two fuel tankers. The products were allegedly being smuggled to neighboring Cameroon.
Comptroller Bashir expressed concern over the economic impact of smuggling, noting that it undermines national growth and depletes resources intended to benefit Nigerians. He called for a united front to combat the activities of smugglers.
“Smuggling remains one of the greatest threats to our economy, particularly in border regions like Adamawa and Taraba. We must work together—Customs, other security agencies, and community members—to ensure these activities are curtailed,” he said.
The Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Comptroller H.K. Ejibunu, praised the dedication of his team and disclosed that the operation also confiscated five vehicles and two motorcycles used in transporting the smuggled fuel.
“This success is a testament to the collective efforts and unwavering commitment of our operatives in Zone D,” Ejibunu stated. “We are determined to disrupt smuggling networks and safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests.”
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has been actively involved in the operation. Engr. Umory Timothy, Head of Operations at NMDPRA in Adamawa State, confirmed that the seized products were handed over to the regulatory body for further action.
“These collaborations are essential to ensure that smuggling networks are dismantled and that petroleum products reach the rightful consumers at stable prices,” Timothy said.
Additionally, the NCS revealed it had recently handed over 14 intercepted fuel tankers to the relevant authorities as part of its continued advocacy for inter-agency collaboration.
Comptroller Bashir reiterated that the NCS remains committed to protecting the country’s economy and ensuring that petroleum products are available to Nigerians. “This is a collective fight, and with the support of all stakeholders, we will continue to achieve significant progress,” he concluded.
With the ongoing efforts of Operation Whirlwind, the Customs Service hopes to ensure a stable fuel supply while curbing economic sabotage in the region.
