Tunde Bakare
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its efforts to combat fuel smuggling with the deployment of newly inducted officers to Operation Whirlwind, a tactical unit launched in May 2024 to check the illegal movement of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) across Nigeria’s borders.
The induction ceremony, held on 3 June 2025, in Abuja, signalled a renewed commitment to national economic protection, as the officers were charged to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and vigilance.
Addressing the operatives, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, underscored the importance of the assignment, stating “We must always affirm to be above board on all matters. Ensure that your integrity is never compromised, and you are not found to have abused your position in this operation. Customs is critical to achieving the vision of fuel product availability in Nigeria.” He noted.
The CGC further emphasised saying “Through this operation, the NCS must deliver impactful service to the nation. We want to be sure our fuel is not smuggled into neighbouring countries.
“Most importantly, we must leverage technology. Programmes will be organised to enable you take advantage of the Geospatial Intelligence tool while in the field.” stated.
National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, ACG Hussein Ejibunu, stressed that the mission’s success depends on strategic execution, discipline, and individual commitment. He encouraged officers to sustain the tempo and operational momentum already established.
Operation Whirlwind continues to play a pivotal role in safeguarding Nigeria’s fuel supply chain, while reaffirming the NCS’s role in national economic security.