The low price of petrol in Nigeria continues to fuel smuggling activities into neighboring countries, the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has warned.

Speaking at a recent press briefing held by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Operations Whirlwind in Yola, NMDPRA CEO Farouk Ahmed explained, “Because petrol is cheapest in Nigeria compared to neighboring countries, the temptation to divert the product illegally remains high.”

The briefing revealed ongoing seizures of large quantities of petrol destined for illegal export. Just days earlier, the Adamawa/Taraba Area Command of the NCS confiscated over 36,000 litres of petrol reportedly being moved toward Cameroon.

Dr. Bashir Sirajo, the Adamawa State Coordinator for NMDPRA, admitted, “A huge volume of petrol designated for locations in Adamawa State is frequently being diverted by smugglers.”

National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Hussaini Ejibunu, detailed recent enforcement efforts: “In the last five weeks, we have seized 48,975 litres of petrol packed in 1,959 jerry cans, along with five vehicles used for smuggling, valued at over N63 million.”Ejibunu assured, “We are resolved more than ever before to give smugglers a tough fight and ensure Nigeria’s borderlines are watertight.”

This ongoing crackdown highlights the challenges faced by regulators and customs officials in curbing the illicit trade driven by price disparities in the region.