Customs mulls plans to distribute seized food items nationwide 

Kunle Sanni

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has said that it is prepared to provide food items that have been seized to lessen the suffering that Nigerians are going through. 

The NCS said the distribution would take place following the certification process, which verifies each food item’s appropriateness for human consumption.

Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of Customs, disclosed plans on Tuesday for the agency to give food products seized to Nigerians as a response to the severe issues with food security and the rapidly rising costs of essential food items in the nation.

The Comptroller General is reaffirming his commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda with this action, according to a statement made on Tuesday by CSC Abdullahi Maiwada, the service’s spokesperson.

According to him, the commitment is deeply embedded in the Service’s main goal of serving the best interests of the Nigerian people, which subsequently fosters stability and development in the nation’s economy.

He said: “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. We 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.”