Customs

Customs’ Operation Whirlwind bares its fangs, swoops on fuel smugglers

— seizes 150,950 litres of PMS, valued at N105,965,391 in one week

Funso Olojo

Barely two weeks after Nigeria Customs Service launched “Operation Whirlwind” – a decisive onslaught against illegal trade of petroleum products across Nigeria’s borders, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi, has said the Service has started recording massive turnout in curtailing the menace of PMS smuggling across the federation.

Addressing newsmen on Monday, 10 June 2024, in Yola, the Adamawa state capital, the CGC re-emphasised strategic efforts to address the critical issue of fuel smuggling. Stating that the exercise aimed at curtailing economic saboteurs has the solid support of the Office of the National Security Adviser.

He said the Service had, in response to the alarming increase in fuel smuggling, launched the initiative to defend the National currency, reduce pressures that may be attributed to the activities of smugglers and dismantle their cartels within the ecosystem, adding,

“In the past 2 weeks, we have received credible intelligence on the relative stability of the
price of PMS around the Border States, this is easily attributed to
disruptions in the operations of smugglers.”

According to him, the operatives attached to the initiative had, within 7 days of non-stop task, intercepted a total of 150,950 litres of PMS, valued at N105,965,391, at various locations nationwide, highlighting, “On Friday 31 May 2024. A total of 45,000 litres of PMS in a tanker was seized at Mubi, Adamawa State.”

He stated that “On Saturday, 1 June 2024, a total of 45,000 litres of PMS
in a tanker was also seized at Mubi, Adamawa, while between Monday, 3 June 2024, and Friday, 7 June 2024, a total of 92,928 litres of PMS in 25 litres of different sizes of jerry cans at Mubi, Song-Wuroboki, Mubi-Sahuda road and Gidan Madara – Sahuda road, in Adamawa state and others in Illela, Sokoto and Agbaragba creek in Mfum border of Cross River State.

The CGC further stated that the Service has also recorded significant seizures of 129,185 litres of PMS from unpatriotic individuals attempting to deprive Nigerians of access to fuel and cause unnecessary hardship valued at N90,558,685, adding “A combined diversion of 280,135 litres of PMS of N196,524,075.50 raises serious economic concerns with broader implications on National Security.”

The CG lamented the unfortunate increase in smuggling of PMS across Borno, Kebbi, Sokoto, Taraba, and Katsina states borders between April and May 2024, and the Service deemed it necessary to collaborate with the NSA to come up with a lasting solution to ensure that Nigerians enjoy the full benefits of fuel price deregulation in line with the vision of President Bola Ahmed
Tinubu.

He said, “Between April and May 2024, Borno and Kebbi States recorded 76% and 59% increases in evacuations, ranking among the top three states. On a year-on-year basis (May 2023 and May 2024), Sokoto and Taraba States recorded the most substantial increases in evacuations, with 247% and 234%
increases, respectively.”

Customs

At UNILORIN conference, Adeniyi advocates for human- driven technology for balanced developmental efforts

Gloria Odion, Maritime reporter

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‎The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to responsible digital transformation and innovation driven governance during his keynote address at the 4th Biennial International Conference organised by the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, University of Ilorin, in collaboration with the Faculty of Philology, RUDN University, Russia.

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‎The conference, themed “Disruptive Technology: Human and Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Economy,” was held on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, at the University of Ilorin Main Auditorium.

The event attracted academics, communication experts, technology professionals, researchers, policymakers, and heads of government agencies to deliberate on the growing influence of digital innovation and artificial intelligence on governance, education, trade, and economic development.

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‎In his address, CGC Adeniyi stressed the importance of balancing technological advancement with human responsibility, noting that the future of the digital economy depends not only on artificial intelligence but also on ethics, leadership, and institutional capacity.

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‎“The digital age is, in the end, a human story, and the real test of our generation is not how powerful our machines become, but how wisely our societies choose to use them,” Adeniyi stated.

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‎He observed that disruptive technologies such as digital payments, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and smart systems have already reshaped global operations, adding that the world is no longer preparing for disruption but actively functioning within it.

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‎According to him, government institutions must ensure that technological innovation strengthens transparency, public trust, and operational efficiency without compromising accountability.

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‎Drawing from the Nigeria Customs Service’s experience, the CGC highlighted ongoing digital transformation initiatives, particularly the deployment of the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System, which has significantly improved trade facilitation, cargo processing, and inter-agency collaboration.

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‎He disclosed that the platform generated over N230 billion at the PTML Command within its first eight months of deployment, while cargo clearance timelines for compliant traders have been reduced to less than eight hours.

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‎“The partnership, not the rivalry, between human and artificial intelligence is where the real value lies,” he said, adding that technology delivers optimal results when guided by strong institutional values and ethical standards.

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‎Adeniyi further noted that although artificial intelligence enhances efficiency, risk management, and decision-making, human expertise and leadership remain indispensable to effective governance and enforcement.

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‎“Technology changes processes leadership and expertise still deliver the results,” he added.

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‎The CGC also called for stronger collaboration among universities, research institutions, and public agencies to develop practical solutions to emerging digital and governance challenges.

He urged academic institutions to move beyond theoretical learning and play a more active role in innovation and policy development.

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‎He identified areas where academia can support Customs modernisation efforts, including digital compliance systems, AI-driven risk management, public trust communication strategies, and the governance of cross border data flows.

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‎Adeniyi further advocated for the development of digital governance frameworks tailored to African realities, legal systems, and developmental priorities, emphasising that technological advancement must remain accountable to the people it serves.

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‎On the sidelines of the conference,the CGC engaged with heads of government agencies, scholars, communication professionals, traditional rulers, and institutional leaders on opportunities for collaboration in digital innovation, research, community development, and capacity building.

Customs

Oshoba, Apapa Customs boss, charges officers on discipline, revenue, trade facilitation

Gloria Odion, Maritime reporter

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, has charged officers and men of the Command to intensify revenue generation, strengthen anti-smuggling operations and uphold professionalism and discipline in the discharge of their duties.

Comptroller Oshoba gave the charge during the Command’s monthly parade held on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, at the Command headquarters in Apapa, Lagos.

The Area Controller emphasized the need for greater operational interventions across terminals to block revenue leakages while ensuring seamless trade facilitation and timely cargo clearance.

“Officers must protect the reputation of the Service. That is why any delay by any officer concerning any consignment will not be tolerated.

“Even at the gates. If a consignment is duly exited, there should be no delay at the gates,” he stated.

He also urged officers to remain accessible and professional in their dealings with stakeholders.

“You must make yourself accessible to our stakeholders and we must avoid actions capable of tarnishing the good image of the Service and the good work being done by the CGC and members of his management.

“We should not be seen as slugs in the wheels of progress,” Oshoba added.

The CAC further called for heightened vigilance against smuggling activities, especially illicit drugs and prohibited items, while warning officers against misconduct and improper dressing.

Highlight of the parade was the recognition of outstanding Officers and Units for exemplary service.

Assistant Comptroller of Customs Ismail Mohammed emerged as the Most Outstanding Officer of the Month, while CSC Augustine Ondoma, ASCI Bukola Olaleye and IC Olalekan Salawu were recognized for professionalism, innovation and punctuality respectively.

Similarly, officers of APM Terminal received the Excellence Award on Enforcement, while Officers of ECO SUPPORT Terminal received the Excellence Award on Revenue Generation.

Comptroller Oshoba explained that the award initiative was introduced to encourage hard work, excellence, professionalism and healthy competition among Officers and Units of the Command.

Customs

PTML donates smart office complex to Customs for enhanced performance

Funso OLOJO, Editor

The Port and Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML), Tin Can Island port, has demonstrated a rare commitment to the welfare and well being of the officers of the PTML command of the Nigeria Customs Service when the terminal operator donated a new fully furnished office complex with modern Information and Communications Technology (ICT) facilities to enhance their operations and boost their efficiency.

While handling the smart office complex to the management of the command on Thursday, May 7th, 2026, the Managing Director of PTML), Mr Ascanio Russo, described the project as a clear demonstration of PTML’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Nigeria Customs Service and ensuring that officers operate in an environment that promotes efficiency, professionalism and productivity.

According to him, the new office complex reflects PTML’s broader vision of fostering stronger institutional partnerships that will ultimately benefit port users and the Nigerian economy.

“This project symbolises our enduring partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service and our collective determination to improve operational standards at the port.

“We promised to provide additional offices to Customs, to complement the existing offices, and today we are proud to fulfil that commitment with a facility designed to provide a modern, comfortable and highly functional workspace for officers.

“We firmly believe that when regulatory agencies are provided with the right work environment and support, they are better positioned to carry out their responsibilities efficiently.

“This new modern facility will undoubtedly enhance productivity, strengthen operational effectiveness and contribute significantly to the seamless movement of cargo and trade facilitation at the terminal,” Russo stated.

He further commended officers and men of the PTML Command for their dedication, professionalism and consistent efforts in sustaining cargo throughput and boosting government revenue generation despite operational challenges.

Receiving the new office complex on behalf of the Nigeria Customs Service, the Customs Area Controller of the PTML Command, Comptroller Joe Anani, expressed deep appreciation to the management of PTML for delivering the project, which he described as timely and impactful.

Comptroller Anani noted that a conducive working environment remains critical to the effectiveness, morale and overall performance of officers, stressing that the newly renovated complex would greatly enhance administrative efficiency and operational coordination within the Command.

“This is truly a dream come true for us. I was informed that this project had been in the pipeline for quite some time, so witnessing its successful completion during my tenure gives me immense satisfaction and joy.

“PTML has demonstrated genuine commitment, responsibility and partnership through this laudable gesture.

“A modern workplace like this has a direct impact on the efficiency and motivation of officers.

“This facility will undoubtedly improve our operational capacity, create a better working atmosphere and support our mandate of facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring compliance with government regulations.

” We sincerely appreciate PTML for honouring this promise and for continuously supporting the activities of the Command,” Anani said.

Industry stakeholders at the event noted that the development will contribute positively to faster cargo clearance procedures, improved administrative processes and stronger synergy between terminal operators and regulatory authorities, all of which are essential to achieving greater efficiency within Nigeria’s maritime sector.

PTML, which is Nigeria’s leading roll-on roll-off terminal, is widely recognised for handling vehicle and container imports as well as providing integrated logistics and terminal services.

The terminal has continued to play a strategic role in supporting Nigeria’s maritime trade through its significant investments in infrastructure, operational efficiency and technology-driven cargo handling processes aimed at improving port productivity and reducing cargo dwell time.