The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has lauded Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, for his decisive measures to enhance border surveillance and combat the smuggling of petroleum products. Ribadu’s praise came during a high-level meeting held on September 9, 2024, at the NSA’s office in Abuja.
In his address, Ribadu underscored the severe impact of petroleum smuggling on Nigeria’s economy and national security. He described smuggling as a “cancer” that depletes essential resources and undermines government revenue. Ribadu called for a united effort from Nigeria’s security and regulatory bodies to address this persistent issue, which threatens to destabilize the oil sector and fuel illegal activities across the country.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN). Ribadu expressed his appreciation for their strong participation, which highlighted the collaborative effort needed to tackle the smuggling crisis.
Adeniyi reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to its legal mandate, particularly under the recent NCS Act 2023, which authorizes the agency to implement stringent anti-smuggling measures. He acknowledged the complexity of the smuggling problem but assured that the Customs Service is determined to address it, citing recent operations led by Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu aimed at dismantling smuggling networks.
“This meeting demonstrates the National Security Adviser’s dedication to launching special operations against smuggling,” Adeniyi said. He emphasized the importance of revitalizing Nigeria’s economy and oil sector and confirmed the Customs Service’s readiness to support this goal.
The CGC discussed the use of innovative technologies by the Customs Service to enhance border security, including real-time monitoring systems and blockchain technology for tracking and authenticating oil and gas movements. Adeniyi highlighted the need for transparency and accountability throughout the petroleum supply chain and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to fighting illegal activities.
Comptroller Ejibunu, National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in anti-smuggling operations. He called for increased funding and additional resources to support Operation Whirlwind’s efforts.
The stakeholders unanimously committed to eradicating petroleum smuggling and securing Nigeria’s borders. They supported Operation Whirlwind and distanced themselves from any involvement in smuggling activities.
In closing, Chief Superintendent Abdullahi Maiwada, National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, announced the signing of a joint communiqué. This document, signed by NSA Ribadu, Comptroller-General Adeniyi, and other key representatives from NNPC Limited, NMDPRA, and IPMAN, outlines resolutions to intensify efforts against petroleum smuggling and protect Nigeria’s economic interests.
