The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has confiscated 1,577 jerry cans of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, with an estimated value of N39.4 million, officials announced on Friday.
Assistant Comptroller General of Customs and National Coordinator of the Unit, Hussaine Ejibunu, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Lagos. Speaking on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, Ejibunu revealed that the seizure was conducted across several border flashpoints, including Ilaro, Imeko, Badagry, Owode, and Ajilete.
According to Ejibunu, investigations confirmed that the fuel was intended for illegal export to neighboring countries, constituting economic sabotage against Nigeria.
"Our commitment to combating smuggling remains unwavering. There will be no safe haven or hiding place for smugglers and economic saboteurs," Ejibunu stated firmly.
Details of the Seizure
The confiscated petrol totaled 39,425 liters, with each jerry can containing 25 liters. The Customs also intercepted eight vehicles used in transporting the fuel, valued at N24 million. This brings the total worth of the seized assets to N63.4 million.
Ejibunu further revealed that under the directive of Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, the seized fuel will be auctioned immediately.
The Assistant Comptroller General acknowledged the crucial support received from key stakeholders during the operation.
"I want to express our appreciation to our strategic partners — the Office of the Attorney General and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Lagos Zonal Office — for their unwavering support. This success would not have been possible without their collaboration," he emphasized.
This seizure comes at a time when Nigeria continues to battle fuel smuggling across its borders, which has been identified as one of the factors affecting domestic fuel supply and contributing to economic challenges in the country.
The Nigeria Customs Service has intensified efforts to curb smuggling activities, particularly of petroleum products, which are often purchased at subsidized rates in Nigeria and sold at higher prices in neighboring countries.
