By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), through Operation Whirlwind, has intercepted 38,700 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), valued alongside the vehicle used to transport the product at ₦63.115 million, in Adamawa State.
The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Lucky Aliyu disclosed this during a press conference at Customs House, Yola, on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, while representing the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
Aliyu said the operation seized 1,548 jerrycans, each with a capacity of 25 litres, following intelligence-driven enforcement activities over six weeks across major smuggling routes in the state’s border areas.
He identified the operational flashpoints as the Malabu-Belel, Girei-Wuro Bokki, Gurin-Fufore, Wuro Alhaji-Maiha and Mubi-Sahuda axes.
According to him, the operatives intercepted the petroleum products intended for illegal export out of Nigeria, alongside a vehicle used to transport the concealed fuel, following actionable intelligence on smuggling activities along the border corridors.
The Customs official put the aggregate duty-paid value of the seized petroleum products and the means of conveyance at ₦63,115,000.
Aliyu warned that smuggling and diverting petroleum products during a period of national energy distribution challenges inflict severe economic harm and expose border communities to serious safety hazards.
He urged community leaders, traditional rulers and citizens to support law enforcement agencies by providing actionable intelligence and rejecting criminal activities in their communities.
He said Operation Whirlwind would continue its enforcement activities against smuggling within the confines of the law.
The National Coordinator said the Service carried out the seizures in compliance with Sections 150, 245, 246 and 248 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
He explained that Section 150 empowers the Service to prevent the illegal export of Premium Motor Spirit, while Section 245 authorises officers to detain, seize and condemn smuggled goods.
He added that Section 246 provides for the forfeiture of smuggled items, including petroleum products transported in violation of existing laws.
Aliyu announced that the Customs Service would auction the seized PMS to the general public at the end of the press conference because of its inflammable nature.
He said the Service would remit the proceeds from the auction into the Federation Account in accordance with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
Aliyu expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs and his management team for their strategic guidance and continued support for Operation Whirlwind.
He also acknowledged the Office of the National Security Adviser, led by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for its leadership and support.
The National Coordinator further commended personnel of Operation Whirlwind, Zone D, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), patriotic citizens and the media for their contributions and support.
He said the operation would not retreat, relent or compromise in its efforts to combat smuggling.
Aliyu ded that the Service remained committed to dismantling smuggling cartels to promote economic stability and growth.
He concluded by warning economic saboteurs that Operation Whirlwind would sustain its enforcement efforts against illegal petroleum product movements within the confines of the law.
