Hunger Intervention: Customs Begins Sales of 20,000 Bags of Grains to Nigerians
ADENIYI ADDRESSING NEWSMEN ON THURSDAY IN LAGOS...
• N10,000 for 25kg of rice
• 2500 cartons , 963 bags of dried fish inclusive
/>By Francis Ugwoke
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Thursday flagged off sales of 20,000 bags of different grains to Nigerians as part of its intervention in addressing the issue of hunger in the country.
The Comptroller General of the Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi told newsmen at the take-off ceremony in Lagos that the items were those seized from importers who contravened trade regulations.
Adeniyi also disclosed that the bags of grains include bags of rice, beans, Maize, Guinea
corn, millet and Soya beans.
He said that to make the items go to as many Nigerians as possible some of them, like rice have bee repackaged to be in 25 kg bags to be sole at N10,000.00 .
Other items were 2500 cartons and 963 bags of dried fish.
dried pepper, tomatoes, cooking oil, Maggi,
Macaroni, salt, sugar and garri..
He said that the Customs leadership had to secure the approval of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu before the sales.
Adeniyi added that the items being sold have been tested okay for human consumption by the relevant federal government agencies.
He also added that the approval of President Bola Tinubu before the sales.
Those to benefit from the sales are Nigerians with proof of having a verifiable National
Identification Number (NIN).
The target groups, according to Adeniyi 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”.
Adeniyi also said that the points of sales are operational areas of the Customs.
Part of the his statement reads:
“ 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.
“ 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”.
Adeniyi also said the Customs Service has remained responsive in carrying out its
mandate to protect our borders from the inflow and outflow of restricted goods.
He added, 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”.
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