- Customs and NMDPRA are deepening intelligence sharing to curb fuel diversion and secure borders.
- New export guidelines will support refining growth without risking domestic energy security.
Nigeria’s energy regulators are intensifying their efforts to safeguard domestic fuel supplies. Fuel diversion in Nigeria remains the central concern driving renewed collaboration.
The Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority have strengthened operational ties. As a result, both agencies aim to curb illegal fuel movements and reinforce energy security.
The renewed commitment emerged during a high-level meeting in Abuja. Comptroller General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi met with NMDPRA Executive Director Ogbugo Ukoha. Consequently, both leaders reviewed progress and set fresh priorities.
During the engagement, Adeniyi reaffirmed Customs’ focus on interagency cooperation. He emphasised that fuel intended for local consumption must remain within Nigeria. Therefore, border controls and intelligence sharing remain critical.
He explained that collaboration already delivers results. Notably, Operation Whirlwind has reduced illegal cross-border fuel flows. Through this initiative, agencies share intelligence and conduct joint field operations.
Adeniyi added that Customs supports reforms in the petroleum sector. Accordingly, the service will provide technical input and border expertise. These efforts will support the implementation of new NMDPRA guidelines.
He also praised moves to align procedures with the Petroleum Industry Act. Clear export rules now matter more, especially as Nigeria expands refining capacity. Hence, efficient export point controls protect national interests.
According to Adeniyi, safeguarding energy security supports legitimate trade. At the same time, transparent systems build stakeholder confidence. Therefore, Customs will continue working closely with sister agencies.
Ukoha described the Customs–NMDPRA relationship as longstanding and productive. He highlighted Operation Whirlwind as a major success. Through joint monitoring, fuel diversion has dropped across border corridors.
He said the visit aimed to brief Customs on new export point guidelines. As Nigeria refines more locally, oversight of exports becomes vital. Thus, NMDPRA seeks operational feedback before full implementation.
Ukoha noted ongoing consultations with key institutions. These include the Central Bank, the Ministry of Trade, and the Nigerian Navy. Consequently, the guidelines will reflect real operational conditions.
He recalled joint operations, including the Yola launch of Operation Whirlwind. These engagements reinforced shared commitment to supply chain security. Therefore, enforcement continues to deter illegal movements.
Ukoha added that the removal of subsidies reduced smuggling incentives. However, vigilance remains necessary, and both agencies will sustain cooperation.
Ultimately, tackling fuel diversion in Nigeria protects energy availability and economic stability. With coordinated action, Nigeria can secure domestic supply while regulating exports responsibly.