Customs Commences Distribution of Seized Food Items to Eligible Nigerians Today

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has announced the initiation of the distribution process for seized food items, set to begin today. In a press briefing held on Thursday in Lagos, Adeniyi emphasized that the distributed items should not be resold.

Customs officers are strictly prohibited from participating in the distribution, and Adeniyi specified that the rice would be available in 25kg bags, priced at N10,000. The National Customs Service (NCS) had earlier revealed plans to directly distribute confiscated food items to the public.

Eligible recipients are required to provide a Nigerian Identification Number, and the targeted groups include artisans, teachers, nurses, religious bodies, and others within the operational areas of the NCS.

Adeniyi urged caution against profiteering and exploitation of the initiative, stating, “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.”

The Customs affirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability throughout the distribution process, warning of decisive action against any violation of the program’s terms. Adeniyi emphasized that this initiative is a temporary measure to dispose of seized food items and ensure the availability of essential goods in the country.

Highlighting the challenges faced by the Nigerian economy, Adeniyi pointed out the massive outflow of items to neighboring countries, including over 20,000 bags of assorted grains, 2,500 cartons, and 963 bags of dried fish. The list of seized items also comprises dried pepper, tomatoes, cooking oil, macaroni, salt, sugar, and garri, posing a threat to the nation’s food security.

The Customs General concluded by stating that this distribution effort is a response to protect society from the challenges affecting the economy and to counteract the unsustainable trend of essential items being diverted to neighboring countries.