Nigeria Customs Service Seizes Smuggled Petroleum Worth N53 Million

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has confiscated a significant quantity of smuggled petroleum products in various operations across Kwara State’s border towns.

During these enforcement efforts, 800 jerry cans (25 liters each) and a truck carrying 33,000 liters of petroleum were seized. The total estimated value of the confiscated goods stands at N53 million.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, disclosed this during a visit to the Kwara State command in Ilorin on February 17, 2025. He revealed that the seizures took place between mid-January and February 15 in areas such as Baruten, Kaiama woodland, Ilesha-Baruba, and Gure border towns.

“This operation is part of our ongoing crackdown on smuggling networks across the country,” Adeniyi stated. “The Kwara border with Benin Republic remains a critical area for our operations, and we are increasing security measures to curb illicit trade.”

The NCS also highlighted the success of ‘Operation Whirlwind’, which has led to:

• The closure of 12 smuggling-related retail locations.
• The confiscation of 460,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) intended for illegal export.
• The seizure of 23 vehicles used for smuggling activities.
• The arrest of seven individuals, with three fuel marketers currently facing legal action.

Adeniyi acknowledged the increasing sophistication of smuggling networks and noted that fuel price differences between Nigeria and neighboring countries continue to drive illegal trade.

“While fuel prices in Nigeria have risen, costs remain significantly higher in countries like Benin Republic and Cameroon, which continues to encourage smuggling,” he explained.

The NCS Comptroller General emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling smuggling and warned those involved in illicit activities to cease operations or face stringent enforcement measures.