The Nigeria Customs Service, (NCS), has commenced the sale of seized food items to Nigerians nationwide, with a 25 kilogramme bag of rice going for as low as N10, 000.
Speaking at a media briefing to flag off the sale of the food items yesterday in Lagos, the NCS Comptroller-General, Bashir Adeniyi, said the initiative was part of the Services ongoing commitment to safeguarding food security and ensuring the availability of essential food items in the country.
He stated that the NCS had secured approval from the Government to dispose of the seized food items to needy Nigerians at discounted prices, with the target groups to include teachers, nurses, artisans, religious bodies, and other Nigerians.
Adeniyi noted that one of the criteria to benefit from the initiative is to have a verifiable National Identification Number, (NIN).
He remarked that to ensure the security and integrity of the initiative, then NCS had put in place comprehensive measures to encompass robust security protocols throughout the process.
Adeniyi maintained that the customs officers would closely monitor the entire supply-chain in order to prevent any misuse or diversion of the food items, adding that the Service has established strict guidelines and eligibility criteria to ensure that the items are distributed only to those in genuine need.
He further hinted that the Service would also be working closely with relevant agencies to ensure compliance with the terms of this programme.
Adeniyi revealed that the intention is to reach out directly to members through the organised structures to ensure the maximum impact of this exercise.
The Customs boss warned that the items are not to be resold, saying the NCS takes a strong stance against any form of profiteering or exploitation of the initiative.
He appealed to Nigerians to report any incidents of misuse or unauthorised resale of the seized food items, as the Service is fully committed to transparency and accountability in the process. He added that the NCS would not hesitate to take decisive action against any individuals or entities found to be in violation of the terms of the programme.
