…Use NIN as Prerequisite, as Government approves Disposal of all Forfeited food items
….Items Available in all Customs Units and Commands
…Says efforts are on going to regularize Customs Exchange Rate
As part of the ongoing commitment to safeguarding the food security of Nigerians, the Nigeria Customs Service has secured approval from the Federal Government to dispose all seized food items to needy Nigerians at discounted prices.
Starting from Friday, February 23, 2024, Foreign Rice would be sold at N10,000 per 25kg in all Customs Units and Commands across the country. The distribution of the rice would be targeted at areas of customs operations, ensuring direct access to beneficiaries.
The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, disclosed this while speaking during the flag-off of the sales at the Service Zone A Center, Harvey Road, Yaba, Lagos on Thursday, February 22, 2024, adding that the Prerequisite for Nigerians to benefit from this initiative include having a verifiable National Identification Number (NIN).
According to him, the target groups expected to benefit from this initiative include artisans, teachers, nurses, religious bodies, and other Nigerians within our operational areas.
The motive, he explained, is to reach out directly to members through these organized structures to ensure the maximum impact of the exercise.
CGC Adeniyi stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the distribution process, urging Nigerians participating in the exercise to refrain from selling the rice in markets or hoarding it for purposes other than domestic consumption.
He highlighted some of the items to be sold to include-Over 20,000 bags of assorted grains (Rice, beans, Maize, Guinea corn, millet, Soya beans; 2500 cartons and 963 bags of dried fish; Others include, Dried pepper, tomatoes, cooking oil, Maggi, Macaroni, salt, sugar, garri and many more.
He added that, “To ensure the security and integrity of this initiative, NCS has put in place comprehensive measures. These measures encompass robust security protocols throughout the process. Our officers will be closely monitoring the entire supply chain to prevent any misuse or diversion of the food items. Moreover, we have established strict guidelines and eligibility criteria to ensure that the items are distributed only to those in genuine need. Additionally, we will be working closely with relevant agencies to ensure compliance with the terms of this programme.
“It is imperative that beneficiaries of this exercise understand that the items are not to be resold. We take a strong stance against any form of profiteering or exploitation of this initiative. We urge Nigerians to report any incidents of misuse or unauthorized resale of the seized food items. NCS is fully committed to transparency and accountability in this process, and we will not hesitate to take decisive action against any individuals or entities found to be in violation of the terms of this program.
“I shall conclude on the note that NCS under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will continue to advance the nation’s goals and objectives. Aligned with the administration’s policies and aspirations for a prosperous Nigeria, NCS is dedicated to executing its duties with excellence and efficiency. Recognizing the significance of its responsibility to protect the society and facilitate trade, the NCS remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding national interests and ensuring the well-being of all Nigerians.
“Furthermore, the NCS is committed to fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and public service. By upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct, the NCS will continue to earn the trust and confidence of the Nigerian people. As a responsive and forward-thinking organization, the NCS will remain at the forefront of efforts to drive sustainable development, enhance competitiveness, and promote inclusive growth. In doing so, the NCS will contribute to the nation’s progress and prosperity, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably among all Nigerians,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, on the skyrocket Customs Exchange Rate, the Comptroller General disclosed that all hands are on deck by relevant actors of government institutions to ensure the rate is normalized to ensure smooth facilitation of trade.
