By: Joy Enamuna
On December 3, 2024, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) convened a high-level meeting with the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and representatives of Dangote Refineries.
The meeting, held at the NCS headquarters in Abuja, focused on addressing the persistent issue of petroleum smuggling across Nigeria’s borders.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, was represented by Assistant Comptroller-General Timi Bomodi, who oversees Enforcement, Inspection, and Investigation.
Bomodi emphasized the necessity of collaboration between stakeholders to curb the illegal diversion of petroleum products, stressing the role of technology and strategic operations.
“With geospatial surveillance and ground operations under Operation Whirlwind, we are enhancing integrity within the system. From production at refineries to delivery at filling stations, our monitoring mechanisms ensure accountability and prevent diversion,” Bomodi stated.
Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, described the initiative as vital to national economic stability.
“Our focus is on ensuring products reach citizens as intended. While we support legitimate trade, we will not hesitate to apply stringent measures against those exploiting the system,” he said.
IPMAN President Abubakar Shettima acknowledged the challenges faced by oil marketers, including the seizure of trucks and the closure of some filling stations.
However, he reiterated IPMAN’s commitment to supporting the NCS’ efforts to combat smuggling, particularly in border regions.
“Prosecuting smugglers is essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s economy and ensuring sustainable growth,” Shettima remarked.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to reconvene on December 10, 2024, with the Comptroller-General of Customs and other top officials to finalize sustainable solutions to tackle petroleum smuggling.
