Nigeria Customs Service, on Tuesday, said it is set to distribute seized food items to Nigerians to help tackle the current hardship in the land.
It, however, stated that the distribution of the food items will be done after they have been certified fit for human consumption.
In recent times, hundreds of young Nigerians have been storming the streets in some parts of the country to protest the current hardship in the land and the high cost of food items.
In his response to the
critical challenges of food security and the rising costs of essential food items in Nigeria, Customs Comptroller General, Adewale Adeniyi, on Tuesday unveiled plans by the service to distribute seized food items to Nigerians.
NCS National Public Relations Officer, CSC Abdullahi Maiwada, in a statement, on Tuesday, said the Comptroller General by his action, has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda.
The statement saids the commitment is deeply rooted in the Service core mandate of serving the best interests of the Nigerian people, and thereby fostering economic stability and prosperity.
He said the urgent imperative fuels the need for a proactive stance to safeguard food availability within Nigeria and alleviate the detrimental effects of scarcity on citizens.
The statement added, “Furthermore, to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians and improve access to essential food items, the Nigeria Customs Service will facilitate the direct disposal of food items forfeited to the Federal Government. These items will be certified fit for consumption by relevant agencies and made available to ordinary Nigerians nationwide through equitable distribution in our Areas of Operations.
“The modalities for the disposal will be communicated through NCS formations nationwide, with a firm commitment to transparency, fairness, and public safety. It is our pledge that this exercise will be managed diligently to ensure that the benefits reach those most in need.
“The NCS remains resolute in its dedication to safeguarding the nation’s food security and advancing the economic well-being of all Nigerians. With the unwavering support and cooperation of the public, we will surmount these challenges and pave the way for a more prosperous future for our beloved nation.”