In a bid to alleviate the hardship faced by Nigerians and improve access to essential food items, the Nigeria Customs Service has launched a strategic method to facilitate the direct disposal of food items forfeited to the Federal Government.
The food items will be certified fit for consumption by relevant agencies and made available to ordinary Nigerians nationwide through equitable distribution in NCS Areas of Operations.
According to a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday February 20, 2024 by the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, CSC Abdullahi Maiwada, this is in response to the critical challenges of food security and the soaring costs of essential food items in Nigeria.
In the Statement, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirms his commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda, which is deeply rooted in the Service’s core mandate of serving the best interests of the Nigerian people, thereby fostering economic stability and prosperity.
The statement read further that 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.
“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.
“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,” the statement partly read.
