The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under its Operation Whirlwind, has intensified its efforts to curb fuel smuggling in the northern border regions, resulting in the seizure of 12,025 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) across the Katsina, Kano, and Jigawa axis.
In a statement issued on 17 October 2024 by the Acting Public Relations Officer, Katsina Command, Assistant Superintendent of Customs, Isah Bello, disclosed that the operation seized 8,625 litres of PMS from the Katsina axis and 3,400 litres from the Kano/Jigawa axis.
According to the statement, the Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, represented, revealed that in a strategic move to ease the economic challenges currently facing the country, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, authorised the auction of the seized petrol to citizens at subsidised rates.
“This aligns with Section 119 of the Nigeria Customs Act 2023, which empowers the NCS to sell seized fuel to the public. The initiative aims to ensure that the benefits of fuel price deregulation reach all Nigerians, particularly in border communities where smuggling activities are prevalent.”
Ejibunu called on Nigerians, especially those residing in border areas, to support the operation by remaining vigilant and cooperating with customs officers to combat illegal fuel smuggling and other resources.
He emphasised that the success of this initiative hinges on collaboration between the NCS and local communities.
In addition, Ejibunu commended the state governments of Kano, Jigawa, and Katsina, as well as local stakeholders, for their continued support, which has been instrumental in the operation’s success.
One of the beneficiaries, Mallam Abba Hassan, expressed appreciation to the NCS for its efforts, noting the positive impact it would have on his community.
He also urged other residents of border communities to assist the Nigeria Customs Service in its fight against smuggling.
