Customs Begin Pilot Distribution Of Seized Food Items In Lagos

Nigeria Customs Begin Pilot Distribution Of Seized Food Items In Lagos Amid Hardship, To Be Extended Nationwide

Maiwada said the agency started the pilot exercise in Yaba and other areas in Lagos State on Thursday to understand the modalities to adopt to make the distribution efficient nationwide.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced the distribution of all confiscated food products in Lagos State.

CSC Abdullahi Maiwada, NCS spokesperson revealed this to SaharaReporters in a telephone conversation on Friday morning.

Maiwada said the agency started the pilot exercise in Yaba and other areas in Lagos State on Thursday to understand the modalities to adopt to make the distribution efficient nationwide.

He said, “I am currently at the place. The pilot exercise is for us to learn from the mistake here before we commence the distribution at other commands across the country. The exercise will start in all states a few days to come.”

A source also confirmed that he witnessed the distribution at the Agege area of the state on Thursday.

A press statement earlier issued by the spokesman on Tuesday said that the decision to distribute the food items was taken to alleviate the current hardship faced by Nigerians and to solve problems of food security and the skyrocketing prices of basic food items in the country.

The NCS underlined that the distribution would take place once the food items underwent certification to ensure their suitability for human consumption.

He said: “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."