Customs Identifies Key Smuggling Corridors in Lagos/Ogun Axis
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Customs Identifies Key Smuggling Corridors in Lagos/Ogun Axis
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has identified several smuggling corridors in the Lagos/Ogun axis, including the Badagry-Seme Corridor, Imeko-Afan Axis, Ilaro-Ojodan Network, and Owode-Ajilete Route.
These corridors have been used by smugglers to evade detection and transport smuggled petroleum products into the country.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this information during a press briefing in Lagos, where he also announced the seizure of 28,300 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) being smuggled into the country.
The seized petroleum products, valued at ₦35,800,000, were intercepted by officers of the NCS under Operation Whirlwind, a special operation established to combat the smuggling of petroleum products across the country’s borders.
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According to the Comptroller-General, the seizure was made between January 11 and February 23, 2025, and brings the total cumulative seizures of petroleum products under Operation Whirlwind to 273,670 liters, valued at ₦273,940,000.
“We have been working tirelessly to combat the smuggling of petroleum products, and the results are evident. The successful implementation of Operation Whirlwind is evident to the collaborative efforts of the NCS, NMDPRA, and ONSA,” the Comptroller-General stated.
The seized petroleum products were concealed in 1,132 Jerry Cans of 25 liters each and were being transported in three vehicles, including a Toyota Camry, a Volkswagen, and another Toyota Camry. The vehicles, which were used as means of conveyance, have also been seized by the NCS.
The NCS has commended the dedication and courage of its officers, who have worked tirelessly to intercept and seize smuggled petroleum products.
The service has also appreciated the support of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration, which has directed that a preemptive response be taken to early warning signals of security threats.
The successful implementation of Operation Whirlwind has been attributed to the collaborative efforts of the NCS, NMDPRA, and ONSA.
The operation has also been supported by the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and border communities, who have provided valuable intelligence and assistance in the fight against smuggling.
The Comptroller-General has assured that the NCS will continue to deploy advanced surveillance technology, establish additional tactical response teams, and enhance community engagement programs to foster greater cooperation from border communities.
The service will also implement an intelligence-driven risk assessment framework to optimize resource allocation and ensure that petroleum products meant for domestic consumption are secured for the benefit of all Nigerians.
“We will not relent in our efforts to combat smuggling and protect our national interests. We will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure that our borders are secure and our economy is protected,” the Comptroller-General stated.
