Customs seize 695,000 litres of smuggled petrol

• Published On: 16 December 2024 at 11:10

The Nigeria Customs Service has seized over 695,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit being smuggled into neighboring countries.

Adewale Adeniyi, NCS Comptroller-General, stated that this operation, conducted in collaboration with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, is part of efforts to combat economic sabotage caused by petroleum product smuggling and diversion.

This was revealed by Adeniyi during the 18th Africa Security Watch Conference in Doha, where he drew global attention to the transformative role of NCS in protecting Nigeria's borders.

According to 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 to balance security enforcement and trade facilitation.

In his keynote address, "Protecting National Security Through Effective Border Control: The Nigeria Customs Example," Adeniyi emphasized the importance of border management in national security, stating that borders are more than just geographical boundaries; they are essential to the nation's security.

He explained that borders are critical gateways that help a country 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 successfully realigned its operational priorities to address new challenges, increase efficiency, and foster greater collaboration.

He stated that the Nigeria Customs Act 2023 is an important legislative milestone that has repositioned the NCS to succeed in an ever-changing environment.

He also reflected on the significant strides made in 2024, which marked a year of unprecedented achievements for the Service, saying, "Under my leadership, the NCS generated a record-breaking N5.1 trillion in revenue, a feat that highlights 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, resulted in the interception of over 695,000 litres of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit.

"We have equally strengthened partnerships with both domestic and international stakeholders," said Mr. Trump.