The Comptroller-General of Customs in Nigeria, Adewale Adeniyi, announced the handover of 1,650 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), valued at N40.7 million, to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority. This transfer, conducted during a ceremony at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, is part of ongoing efforts to tackle illegal fuel activities in the region. Adeniyi emphasized the significance of regulatory oversight in combating contraband and ensuring compliance within the petroleum sector.

The seized petrol was intercepted during enforcement operations that took place over the past nine weeks, targeting various notorious smuggling routes, including locations in Lagos State such as Badagry and Seme. The Customs authority reported that intensive surveillance led to the successful interception of 1,630 jerrycans, indicating a strong commitment to curbing smuggling activities that affect legal fuel distribution in Nigeria. This operation reflects the increasing focus of the government on enhancing border security and regulating petroleum supplies.

The handover ceremony highlighted the collaboration between different government agencies in the fight against fuel smuggling in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for sustained vigilance and cooperation to protect the integrity of the petroleum market. The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority will conduct further investigations into the seized fuel to identify any underlying illegal operations or networks, which also speaks to the broader challenges related to fuel smuggling in the country, raising concerns over revenue losses and safety issues related to unregulated fuel sales.