Customs CG Defends Controversial Tenure Extensions Amid Alleged Lobbying
The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has defended the recent extension of service for senior officers, stating that the process followed due procedure. Speaking to journalists during an official visit to the Kwara State Command Headquarters in Ilorin, Adeniyi confirmed that he would appear before the National Assembly on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, to address the controversy surrounding the tenure extensions.
Reports earlier suggested that several senior Customs officials who were nearing the end of their service had been granted extensions following an alleged lobbying process, a move that disrupted the career progression of other staff members. The extension, lasting one year, has caused unease within the ranks of the Customs, raising concerns about its impact on career development for lower officers.
The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions, following a petition by the Obasi-Pherson Help Foundation, invited Adeniyi to provide clarity on the matter. The committee is expected to probe the legality and fairness of the decision.
In his response, Adeniyi emphasized that the Nigeria Customs Service operates by the rule of law and that any actions taken are in accordance with legal approvals. “We will be at the National Assembly tomorrow; we already have our facts,” he said, adding that the extension had been properly approved by President Bola Tinubu following due process.
Among the affected officers is Faith Ojeifo, the Controller of Customs for Kwara State, who has been praised for her performance and also received the extension. Adeniyi reaffirmed that no officer would be allowed to operate outside the law.
Smuggling Fight Intensified: Customs Seizes Over 53,000 Litres of PMS
Adeniyi also spoke on the NCS’s ongoing battle against oil smuggling, which he described as a significant threat to the nation’s economy. He stressed the need for public involvement in tackling smuggling and highlighted the detrimental effects of the illegal activity.
Between January 14 and February 11, 2025, NCS operatives intercepted over 53,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), worth N53 million, under Operation Whirlwind in Kwara State. The smuggling is driven by large price discrepancies between Nigeria and neighboring countries, where fuel is sold at significantly higher rates. In Nigeria, the price as of February 10, 2025, was N1,184.83 per litre, while it stood at N1,680.32 per litre in Benin and N2,030.89 per litre in Cameroon.
“This price difference has led to large-scale smuggling, creating a black market economy that deprives Nigeria of critical resources,” Adeniyi explained. “This is not just about revenue loss; it’s about economic sabotage. Every litre smuggled out of Nigeria is a litre that could have supported local industries, transportation, and small businesses.”
The NCS also provided details on several significant seizures. On January 14, 94 jerry cans (2,350 litres) of PMS were seized at Gure Road, valued at N2.35 million. On February 5, another 162 jerry cans (4,050 litres) were intercepted at Kayama forest. The largest seizure occurred on February 11, when a 33,000-litre tanker truck was intercepted along Siya Buriya Road, valued at N33 million.
Technology and Stakeholder Cooperation Key in Smuggling Crackdown
Adeniyi acknowledged that while significant progress has been made in the fight against petroleum smuggling, more advanced technology and greater cooperation with stakeholders are necessary to tackle the issue effectively. He noted that with over 17 land borders in the country, advanced technology and increased collaboration will be crucial in combatting smuggling.
As the NCS continues to strengthen its operations, Adeniyi reiterated that the service remains committed to protecting Nigeria’s resources and ensuring that those involved in illegal activities are held accountable.
