As part of efforts to dissipate tough economic times in the nation and the inflated prices of food items, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) will commence the sale of 25kg rice at N10,000 to Nigerians on Friday (today), nationwide.
The Comptroller-General, NCS, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, who revealed this during a press conference on Thursday, stated that Customs will utilize a digitalized process with National Identity Number (NIN) qualifying participants to get one bag.
He, however, explained that the Service will work closely with the Nigerian Police and other agencies in a bid to ensure a seamless process devoid of stampede and conflicts.
Adeniyi observed that in ecent months, the government has been addressing the challenges faced within the Nigerian economy, particularly the lagged effects of insecurity and the current exchange rate issues which exacerbated concerns about food security, leading to inflation.
His words. “The NCS has secured approval from the government to dispose of these seized food items to needy Nigerians at discounted prices. The criteria for Nigerians to benefit from this initiative include having a verifiable National Identification Number (NIN).The intention is to reach out directly to members through these organized structures to ensure the maximum impact of this exercise.”
The Customs boss also supervised a sale and disbursement process with journalists and subjected the process to criticisms in order to identify challenges and simplify the procedure.
Moreover, he maintained that the foods items are not to be resold and added that the NCS would take a strong stance against any form of profiteering or exploitation of the initiative.
Adeniyi described the initiative as Customs Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in response to the cry of Nigerians amid the food challenges and inflation.
“NCS is fully committed to transparency and accountability in this process, and we will not hesitate to take decisive action against any individual or entities found to be in violation of the terms of this program.”
“We remain responsive in carrying out our mandate to protect our borders from the inflow and outflow of restricted goods posing a threat to our food security,” the Customs boss added.
Some of the items available in Lagos include: 20,000 bags of assorted grains including; rice, beans, maize, guinea corn, millet, soya beans. 2500 cartons and 963 bags of dried fish. Others include, dried pepper, tomatoes, cooking oil, maggi, macaroni, salt, sugar and garri.
