Customs CG Shows Off FOU ‘A’, Operations Whirlwind Humongous Anti-Smuggling Feats worth over N1.8Bn in One Month
CGC Representative, ACG HK Ejibunu addressing Journalists at the event
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Zone ‘A’ Anti-Smuggling Arm have continued to impressed the Nigerian nation in its campaign against all forms of cross border smuggling and activities of import defaulters, an effort seen to protect the nation’s economy.
Comptroller MS Shuaibu of FOU ‘A’ at the event
With pride, the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, ably represented by Assistant Comptroller General (ACG), Hussein Kehinde Ejibunu, the National Coordinator of Operations Whirlwind was on ground to identified with the huge successes recorded by Zone ‘A’ enforcement wings of Federal Operations Unit, the service’s foremost Anti-Smuggling unit and activities of Operations Whirlwind Force against cross border PMS smuggling, as he showcased seizure record worth about N1.8billion in the last four (4) weeks.
The Customs boss who was represented by the National Co-ordinator of Operation Whirlwind, ACG HK Ejibunu said petroleum products intercepted by the Operation Whirlwind alone are worth N58.3 million just within two and three weeks.
“We are gathered here today to provide an update on the Unit’s activities and achievements over the past few weeks particularly our relentless efforts to dismantle smuggling syndicates, curb illicit trade, and disrupt criminal networks operating within our area of responsibility.
Operational Overview
In the past four weeks, from June 3rd to July 18th, 2025, the Unit has sustained a high operational tempo across the southwestern states. Our intelligence-led operations have enabled us to proactively intercept smuggled goods, disrupt illicit supply chains, and strengthen border enforcement.
During this period, a total of 102 enforcement interventions were recorded, leading to the interception of a wide range of prohibited and smuggled goods.
Breakdown of Major Seizures
Below is a summary of the significant items seized during this period: 3,500 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each) which is equivalent to 6 trailer loads; 304kg of Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp); 7,900 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in 316 jerry cans of 25 liters each; 54 bags and 20 bales of used clothing; 41 sacks and bags of used footwear; and 14 units of used (“Tokunbo”) vehicles.
Others are 148 pieces of used tyres; 42 used gas cylinders; 31 units of air conditioning systems; 95 cartons of frozen poultry products.
PMS SEIZURE
Other notable seizures include 1X40FT container with container number TRHU 83907321 fully loaded with used tyres, 1X20FT with container number ONEU241369 containing medicaments, as well as 2X40FT with containers numbers MSKU 4796036, MAEU 9205708, and one truck with container body conveying used fridges, foreign supermarket items and used clothes.
According to the statement, all the containers were wrongly declared to invade duties.
In evaluating the Seizures, the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of all intercepted items stands at an impressive 1,784,432,000 (One billion, Seven Hundred and eighty four million four hundred and thirty two thousand Naira).
The ACG however disclosed the arrests and prosecution of a total of nine (9) suspects made in connection with the seizures, noting that some have been granted administrative bail, while others have been, or will be, handed over to relevant security agencies for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Commitment to Professionalism and Collaboration
The Federal Operations Unit remains deeply committed to executing its mandate with the utmost professionalism and in strict adherence to extent regulations. Our operations are conducted with restraint, respect for human rights, and a commitment to peaceful enforcement.
To enhance synergy and support for our activities, I have embarked on familiarization visits to traditional institutions and sister security agencies across the zone. These visits aim to deepen collaboration in our collective effort to combat trans-border crimes and enhance national security.
Tribute to Officers and Men
These achievements would not be possible without the dedication and courage of our gallant officers, who risk their lives daily to secure our borders and protect the national economy. Their sacrifices are commendable and deserve public recognition.
Revenue Recovery through Demand Notices
In addition to our enforcement duties, the Unit also ensures compliance with import and export regulations. We have continued to scrutinize questionable declarations, correct under-valuations, and issue Demand Notices (DNs) where appropriate.
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