Customs commence distribution of seized food items today

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has stated that the distribution of seized food items will commence on Friday.

Adeniyi, speaking to the press in Lagos on Thursday, cautioned that the seized food products would not be resold.

Adeniyi further stated that customs officers were prohibited from participating in the exercise and that the rice would be sold in 25 kg bags for N10,000.

Recall that the Customs stated that it had completed plans to begin the direct distribution of seized food supplies to Nigerians.

Abdullahi Maiwada, the service’s National Public Relations Officer, confirmed this in a statement released on Tuesday.

Giving an update on the criteria, Adeniyi stated that qualified individuals must present a Nigerian identification number.

“The target groups included 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 added.

However, he warned against profiteering or exploitation of the initiative.

“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,” he said.

He emphasized that the NCS was fully committed to transparency and accountability in this process.

“We will not hesitate to take decisive action against any individuals or entities found to violate the terms of this program,” the customs asserted.

Adeniyi noted that the exercise would not last forever, adding that it would be a way for the service to dispose of seized food items for now.

“We are here to shed light on the commitment of the NCS to 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.

“Items are moving out massively to neighbouring countries. Some of the items included over 20,000 bags of assorted grains, 2,500 cartons, and 963 bags of dried fish.

“Others are dried pepper, tomatoes, cooking oil, macaroni, salt, sugar, and garri. This trend is not sustainable as it puts pressure on our productive capacity and threatens our food security,” Adeniyi noted.