The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched a relentless crackdown on fuel smugglers, intercepting over 53,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Kwara State.
This major seizure, valued at ₦53 million, was made under Operation Whirlwind between January 14 and February 11, 2025.
Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi described fuel smuggling as a “direct threat to Nigeria’s economic stability and national security.”
He emphasized that despite the removal of fuel subsidies, smugglers continue to exploit price disparities between Nigeria and neighboring countries, undermining government policies and affecting ordinary Nigerians.
The significant price difference has encouraged large-scale smuggling, creating a black market economy that deprives Nigeria of critical resources.
For instance, as of February 10, 2025, the global price of petroleum was ₦1,184.83 per litre in Nigeria, compared to ₦1,680.32 per litre in Benin and ₦2,030.89 per litre in Cameroon.
To combat this menace, the NCS has adopted a technology-driven strategy under Operation Whirlwind, combining real-time intelligence, advanced surveillance systems, and strategic community engagement to track and disrupt smuggling networks.
Some notable seizures made by the NCS include: 94 jerry cans (2,350 litres) of PMS seized at Gure road, valued at ₦2.35 million, 162 jerry cans (4,050 litres) of PMS intercepted at Kayama forest, valued at ₦4.05 million and 33,000-litre tanker truck intercepted along Siya Buriya road, valued at ₦33 million
The NCS has pledged to sustain its anti-smuggling operations nationwide, urging border communities, fuel marketers, and stakeholders to support the fight against illegal fuel trade.
Those involved in fuel smuggling are warned to reconsider their actions, as the full weight of the law will be deployed against them.
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