The Nigeria Customs Service has reported that the Badagry-Seme corridor accounted for 35 per cent of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit in the past two weeks.
Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi disclosed this on Monday while displaying seized petrol volumes at the Customs Training College in Ikeja.
He said that a comprehensive analysis of seizure patterns along the axis provides key insights into the evolving smuggling tactics and the main routes exploited by the perpetrators.
“The first corridor is the Badagry-Seme corridor, which accounts for approximately 35 per cent of the total seizures,” Adeniyi said.
Adeniyi identified the axis as the primary smuggling route, citing multiple interceptions along the Badagry-Seme corridor and its waterside.
He noted that its proximity to the Republic of Benin and the intricate waterway network make it a preferred route for smugglers.
“The second identified corridor is the Imeko-Afon axis in Ogun State with 25 per cent of total seizures while Ilaro-Ojodan contributes 22 per cent. Owode-Ajilete route is responsible for 18 per cent,” the CGC mentioned.
Adeniyi emphasized that these routes represent a newly emerging corridor exploited by smugglers to bypass traditional enforcement positions.
“The operational data reveals several emerging trends in smuggling tactics that warrant our attention,” he said.
The customs boss revealed that an intelligence-driven operation from January 11 to February 23, 2025, led to the interception of 28,300 litres of petrol concealed using various smuggling techniques.
He stated that the seized fuel had a duty-paid value of N35.8 million.
He stated that three vehicles used for smuggling were also seized. Adeniyi highlighted the sustained success of Operation Whirlwind, particularly in the Southwest geopolitical zone.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Customs Service held a pre-launch event for its ‘B’Odogwu’ trade facilitation tool at the Apapa and Tincan Island commands, aiming to enhance trade efficiency.
