The Nigeria Customs Service has seized more than 695,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit being smuggled to neighboring countries.
NCS Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi noted that this operation, carried out in partnership with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, is part of efforts to tackle economic sabotage caused by the smuggling and diversion of petroleum products.
This was disclosed by Adeniyi while drawing global attention to the transformative role of NCS in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders at the 18th Africa Security Watch Conference in Doha.
This was revealed in a statement issued on Sunday by the National Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada.
The statement provided a detailed account of the Nigeria Customs Service’s efforts in balancing security enforcement with trade facilitation.
In his keynote address, titled “Protecting National Security Through Effective Border Control: The Nigeria Customs Example,” Adeniyi stressed the critical role of border management in national security, noting that borders are not merely geographical boundaries but essential to safeguarding the nation.
He explained that borders are vital gateways that play a key role in a nation’s ability to protect its citizens, safeguard its economy, and promote overall security.
The CGC emphasized that, with the support of the Nigeria Customs Act 2023, the NCS has effectively realigned its operational priorities to address new challenges, enhance efficiency, and foster greater collaboration.
He stated that the Nigeria Customs Act 2023 is a significant legislative milestone that has repositioned the NCS to succeed in a constantly evolving environment.
He also reflected on the significant strides made in 2024, which marked a year of unparalleled achievements for the Service, adding “Under my leadership, the NCS generated a record-breaking N5.1tn in revenue, a feat that underscores the agency’s innovative use of technology and improved compliance frameworks.”
“Our Operation Whirlwind, a collaboration between the NCS and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, has led to the interception of over 695,000litress of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit.
“We have equally strengthened partnerships with both domestic and international stakeholders,” he said.
