Nigeria Customs Strengthens Alliance with IPMAN, NMDPRA to Tackle PMS Smuggling
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating the illegal exportation of petroleum products by forging stronger partnerships with key stakeholders.
At a high-level meeting held at the NCS headquarters in Abuja, representatives of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and Dangote Refineries convened to discuss strategies to curb petroleum smuggling.
Representing the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, was Assistant Comptroller-General Timi Bomodi, who emphasised the necessity of collaboration in addressing this national challenge.
Speaking on the agency’s approach, Bomodi underscored the role of advanced surveillance and operational precision under the NCS’ Operation Whirlwind.
“With geospatial surveillance and on-the-ground operations, we ensure integrity within the system,” Bomodi explained. “From refinery production to distribution at designated filling stations, we can monitor and prevent diversions.
“Our central filing system allows for accurate record-keeping, reducing opportunities for illegal activities.”
The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, stressed the importance of the initiative for economic stability.
“This is about ensuring that products meant for Nigerians reach their intended destinations promptly. While we support legitimate trade, we will not hesitate to apply stringent measures against illegal operators. Progress is being made, and the challenges are steadily being overcome,” Ejibunu said.
Abubakar Shettima, President of IPMAN, acknowledged the difficulties faced by petroleum marketers, including the seizure of trucks and the closure of some filling stations.
However, he reaffirmed the association’s support for the NCS’ anti-smuggling campaign. “Smugglers must face prosecution to safeguard Nigeria’s economy and foster growth. Despite our challenges, we stand by efforts to protect the nation’s resources,” Shettima stated.
A United Front Against Smuggling
The meeting featured an interactive session during which participants discussed operational challenges and outlined actionable solutions.
The meeting concluded with a resolution to reconvene on 10 December 2024.
This follow-up session will involve the Comptroller-General of Customs and senior officials to refine strategies and establish sustainable measures to curb petroleum smuggling.
