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NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE INTENSIFIES CRACKDOWN ON FUEL SMUGGLING

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its crackdown on fuel smuggling, with the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, warning smugglers to expect tougher times ahead. This warning comes after officers of Operation Whirlwind intercepted 28,300 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at N35.8 million along the Lagos-Ogun border region. Adeniyi stated that the NCS is committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s energy security and economic sovereignty. He emphasized that the seizures made by Operation Whirlwind are not just routine customs violations, but a systematic attempt to destroy Nigeria’s economic foundations. “The seizures made by Operation Whirlwind are not just routine customs violations, but a systematic attempt to destroy Nigeria’s economic foundations,” Adeniyi said. The CGC announced that Operation Whirlwind has recorded remarkable results, with cumulative seizures of 245,370 litres of PMS valued at N238,140,000 in less than three months. Adeniyi noted that the steady momentum of Operation Whirlwind is further demonstrated by the commendable performance recorded in Zone ‘A’, covering the Lagos-Ogun axis. The details of the seizures include 1,132 jerrycans of 25 litres each, totalling 28,300 litres, and three vehicles used as means of conveyance. Adeniyi equally noted that the intercepted fuel was being moved through well-known smuggling corridors, with the Badagry-Seme axis accounting for 35% of the seizures. Adeniyi reiterated that Customs is responding aggressively to smugglers’ tactics, and there will be no safe haven for smugglers in their operational areas. He commended the dedication and courage of the Operation Whirlwind team, headed by ACG Hussein Ejibunu, further stating that their vigilance, integrity, and commitment to duty are commendable in the face of significant operational challenges.

PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES CUSTOMS CG ADEWALE ADENIYI ON HIS 59TH BIRTHDAY

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Adewale Adeniyi, the 14th Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on his 59th birthday, January 19, 2025. The President commends Adeniyi for his pivotal role since taking leadership of the Customs Service in June 2023. In a statement, the Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, said the President noted that under Adeniyi’s guidance, the agency has witnessed significant progress through the steady digitalisation and automation of its operations, a renewed commitment to professionalism, and an uplift in officers’ morale, enhancing high performance. “His leadership has enabled the NCS to surpass revenue targets substantially and bolstered trade facilitation, yielding widespread positive effects on the national economy,” Onanuga stated. President Tinubu applauded the innovative anti-smuggling strategies initiated by the Customs Chief, which encompass equipping the youth with new skills for alternative livelihood opportunities, fostering engagements with traditional institutions, and nurturing a culture of effective communication and mutual respect. The President recognised the Comptroller-General’s other notable achievements, including the remarkable seizures of arms and ammunition and the revitalisation of the Comptroller-General’s Annual Conference, which aims to assess and enhance the agency’s operations. Onanuga stated that President Tinubu affirmed Adeniyi’s extensive experience of over 30 years in service and adaptability to change has greatly enriched the Customs Service. Bayo Onanuga noted that the President offered prayers for divine wisdom, robust health, and continued strength for Comptroller-General Adeniyi as he serves the nation. Onanuga concluded that President Tinubu’s message was a testament to Adeniyi’s dedication and commitment to the Nigeria Customs Service.