Customs Collaborate to Curb Fuel Smuggling in Seme Command

Customs Collaborate to Curb Fuel Smuggling in Seme Command

By prince Benson Davies

The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Lucky Aliyu, has been touring various customs units and commands nationwide to strengthen collaboration with Area Controllers and tackle petroleum smuggling. Since his appointment, Aliyu has visited several key locations, including Idiroko border, Oyo/Osun command, Kebbi and Kano commands, and Adamawa/Taraba customs. His recent visit to Seme/Badagry command aimed to enhance efforts against smugglers and ensure effective border control.

Aliyu emphasized that smuggling harms Nigeria’s economy, fuels insecurity, and causes artificial scarcity of petroleum products. He assured that Operation Whirlwind is prepared to dismantle illegal petroleum marketing networks. The Seme/Badagry command has pledged to support the operation and encourage genuine trade facilitation.

Comptroller Kaila, Area Controller of Seme/Badagry command, assured of adequate policing of the international border while promoting legitimate trade. The Zone A Commander, A/Compt Zaki, also participated in the meeting, highlighting the importance of synergy among customs personnel.

Operation Whirlwind was established to combat illegal diversion and smuggling of petroleum products across Nigerian borders. The initiative has already yielded results, with seizures of significant quantities of smuggled fuel and revenue recovery.

The National Coordinator stressed that effective enforcement requires collaboration and strategic partnerships. He urged all stakeholders to support Operation Whirlwind in curbing petroleum smuggling and promoting national energy security.