The Nigeria Customs Service has disrupted an anti-smuggling operation in Kebbi State by seizing 125,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, also referred to as petrol.
The seizure, which was made as part of Operation Whirlwind, is the biggest gasoline bust that Customs has seen since the program’s inception.
Fuel smuggling is a significant economic concern that contributes to revenue losses, artificial shortages, and security risks, according to ACG Hissaini Ejibunu, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, who spoke at a news event in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday.
He disclosed that three Scania trucks carrying petrol were intercepted in Tsamiya by agents from the Federal Operations Unit, Zone B and the Kebbi Area Command in response to intelligence.
The confiscated fuel—packed in 4,375 jerrycans of 25 litres each and 54 drums of 200 litres—had a Duty Paid Value of ₦125m and was allegedly being smuggled across the border.
Customs said the intercepted trucks were registered in the Republic of Benin and had been under surveillance before officers moved in.
More fuel was also seized at smuggling hotspots, including Dolekeina, Zaria Kalakala, Tunga Waterside, and Lolo Tsamiya.
“The success of this operation was credited to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), whose intelligence collaboration was key in disrupting the smuggling ring,” he said.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, represented by ACG Hussaini Ejibunu, praised the officers’ vigilance and commended National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for his role in the broader fight against economic crimes.
He urged Nigerians to support Customs’ anti-smuggling efforts by reporting suspicious activities.
“This operation proves the strength of inter-agency collaboration. We remain committed to dismantling smuggling networks and holding economic saboteurs accountable,” Adeniyi stated.
The Customs Area Controller for Kebbi Command, Compt. Chidi Chukwumeziri Nwokorie, reiterated that the crackdown will continue with renewed intensity.
He assured legitimate traders of the NCS’s commitment to facilitating lawful trade while ensuring full compliance with regulations.
