The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has deployed its newly inducted officers to Operation Whirlwind, intensifying efforts to combat fuel smuggling in the country.
Operation Whirlwind is a tactical unit of the NCS launched in May 2024 to curb the illegal movement of fuel across Nigeria’s borders.
The induction ceremony, held on June 3, 2025, in Abuja, signalled a renewed commitment to protecting the national economy, as officers were charged to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and vigilance.
Addressing the operatives at the ceremony, the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised the importance of the assignment to the nation.
“We must always affirm to be above board on all matters. Ensure that your integrity is never compromised, and you are not found to have abused your position in this operation. Customs is critical to achieving the vision of fuel product availability in Nigeria,” Comptroller Adeniyi stated.
He added: “Through this operation, the NCS must deliver impactful service to the nation. We want to be sure our fuel is not smuggled into neighbouring countries. Most importantly, we must leverage technology. Programmes will be organised to enable you take advantage of the Geospatial Intelligence tool while in the field.”
On his part, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, ACG Hussein Ejibunu, stressed that the mission’s success depends on strategic execution, discipline, and individual commitment.
Ejibunu encouraged officers to sustain the tempo and operational momentum already established.
Operation Whirlwind remains crucial in protecting Nigeria’s fuel supply chain, highlighting the Service’s importance in national economic security.
