Palliative: Customs Begins Food Distribution, Sells 25kg of Rice for N10,000

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has initiated the sale of confiscated bags of rice to the public at the rate of N10,000 per 25kg.

Speaking to reporters in Lagos, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of the NCS, revealed that the sale process for these food items has been streamlined.

Applicants are required to submit a form containing their details, including the National Identification Number (NIN), to receive a generated barcode for collecting the commodity.

Adeniyi announced the opening of ten registration points to facilitate public access and streamline the purchase process.

The objective behind selling the seized items, according to Adeniyi, is to reduce the price of food items and stabilize the value of the Naira.

He issued a stern warning against the resale of the purchased rice, emphasizing that individuals caught engaging in such activities would face arrest and potential prosecution.

Adeniyi clarified that the disposal of the confiscated items would occur over a specified period, with the primary intention being to assist economically disadvantaged Nigerians.

He said, “In ensuring food security for Nigerians. We are here to shed light on the commitment of the NCS in protecting our society by ensuring the availability of essential food items.

“In recent months, the government has been addressing the challenges faced within our economy, particularly the lagged effects of insecurity and the current exchange rate issues.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the food security of Nigerians, the NCS has secured approval from the government to dispose of these seized food items to needy Nigerians at discounted prices.

“The criteria for Nigerians to benefit from this initiative include having a verifiable National Identification Number (NIN).

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“The target groups include artisans, teachers, nurses, religious bodies, and other Nigerians within our operational areas. The intention is to reach out directly to members through these organized structures to ensure the maximum impact of this exercise.

“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 program.

“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.”

In a correlated update, the NCS leadership revealed that the issue of food security has intensified worries, resulting in a troubling pattern of substantial outflow of food items to neighboring countries.

Furthermore, they revealed that more than 20,000 bags of various grains such as rice, beans, maize, guinea corn, millet, and soya beans, along with 2,500 cartons and 963 bags of dried fish, have been affected. Other items include dried pepper, tomatoes, cooking oil, Maggi seasoning, macaroni, salt, sugar, and garri.

“This trend is not sustainable as it puts pressure on our productive capacity and threatens our food security.

“To address this, the NCS has remained responsive in carrying out its mandate to protect our borders from the inflow and outflow of restricted goods. One concerning trend noticed is the outflow of food items in huge quantities, posing a threat to our food security. It should be noted that the condition for the export of any item is only met upon fulfilling sufficiency internally.

“In this regard, food items deemed not to fulfil these conditions are showing up in our interceptions made at the borders. We will continue to advance the nation’s goals and objectives by aligning 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,” he stated.