The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced plans to distribute seized food items across the country as part of efforts to address the ongoing food crisis. The National Public Relations Officer, CSC Abdullahi Maiwada, stated that the food items will only be distributed after they have been certified safe for human consumption.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Maiwada emphasized that the initiative aims to ease the difficulties faced by Nigerians and enhance access to essential food items. He explained that the NCS will oversee the direct disposal of forfeited food items to the Federal Government, ensuring they meet all safety standards before distribution.
Maiwada further assured the public that the disposal process will be carried out with transparency, fairness, and utmost consideration for public safety. He affirmed the NCS’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of this initiative reach those most in need.
The announcement reflects the dedication of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s food security agenda. The NCS views this commitment as integral to its core mandate of serving the interests of the Nigerian people and promoting economic stability and prosperity.
Additionally, the NCS has initiated a strategic anti-smuggling operation and public engagement campaign to deter the unlawful exportation of essential food resources for individual economic gain.
READ THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW
PRESS RELEASE
NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE IMPLEMENTS MEASURES TO MITIGATE FOOD SECURITY CHALLENGES
- In response to the critical challenges of food security and the soaring costs of essential food items in Nigeria, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirms his commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda. This commitment is deeply rooted in the NCS’s core mandate of serving the best interests of the Nigerian people, thereby fostering economic stability and prosperity.
- In line with this vision, the service has launched a strategic anti-smuggling operation and public engagement in its commitment to prevent the unlawful exportation of vital food resources for individual economic gains. This urgent imperative fuels the need for a proactive stance to safeguard food availability within our nation and alleviate the detrimental effects of scarcity on citizens.
- Furthermore, to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians and improve access to essential food items, the Nigeria Customs Service will facilitate the direct disposal of food items forfeited to the Federal Government. These items will be certified fit for consumption by relevant agencies and made available to ordinary Nigerians nationwide through equitable distribution in our Areas of Operations.
- The modalities for the disposal will be communicated through NCS formations nationwide, with a firm commitment to transparency, fairness, and public safety. It is our pledge that this exercise will be managed diligently to ensure that the benefits reach those most in need.
- The NCS remains resolute in its dedication to safeguarding the nation’s food security and advancing the economic well-being of all Nigerians. With the unwavering support and cooperation of the public, we will surmount these challenges and pave the way for a more prosperous future for our beloved nation.
ABDULLAHI MAIWADA
Chief Superintendent of Customs
National Public Relations Officer
for Comptroller General of Customs
20 February 2024