The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says plans are being put in place to facilitate the direct disposal of food items forfeited to the Federal Government to Nigerians in response to the critical challenges of food security and the soaring costs of essential food items in the country.
The National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
The statement noted that the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda.
This commitment he said is deeply rooted in the NCS’s core mandate of serving the best interests of the Nigerian people, thereby fostering economic stability and prosperity.
The statement partly read: “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”
According to Maiwada, the items will be certified fit for consumption by relevant agencies and made available to ordinary Nigerians nationwide through equitable distribution in the Service’s Areas of Operations.
The Customs spokesperson further disclosed that modalities for the disposal will be communicated through NCS formations nationwide, with a firm commitment to transparency, fairness, and public safety.
He pledged that the 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”, Maiwada added.
