Food Security: NCS Launches Initiative to Alleviate Food Scarcity in Nigeria

...as CGC Adeniyi Kicks-off Sales of Seized Food Items in Lagos

Following The scourge of food scarcity Nigeria, the Federal Government through the Nigeria Customs Service has kicked off The sale sale of food items across the country.

The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has expressed commitment to align with President Bola Tinubu-led administration's plans to tackle the pressing issue of food insecurity by ensuring the availability of essential food items to Nigerians.

Speaking at the flag-off of the rice disbursement program at the Zone A' Zonal Headquarters, Harvey Road, Yaba Lagos on Thursday, February 22, 2024, CGC Adeniyi emphasized that the distribution of rice would be targeted at areas of customs operations, ensuring direct access to beneficiaries.

CGC Adeniyi stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the distribution process, urging Nigerians participating in the exercise to refrain from reselling the rice in markets or hoarding it for purposes other than domestic consumption.

peaking further, the CGC said the NCS secured approval from the government to dispose off the seized food items to needy Nigerians at discounted prices of #10,000.00 (Ten Thousand naira) only after satisfying the verification process of presenting the National Identification Number (NIN).

He emphasized, “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 maximums j impact of this exercise".

He however, emphasized that the initiative's primary objective is to provide essential food items to those in need, in line with the Nigeria Customs Service's commitment to enhancing its social welfare responsibility programs.

“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 to the Nigeria Customs Service. The CGC stated.

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