The Nigeria Customs Service has disclosed that it will distribute seized food items to Nigerians to ease their insufferable situations.

According to a statement on Tuesday by customs spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada, the distribution will be done after all the food items have been certified fit for human consumption.

The plan by the comptroller general of customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the service to distribute the seized food items to Nigerians was in response to the ongoing critical challenges of food security and the soaring prices of food items in the country, said the statement.

It stated that the proposed move by Mr Adeniti was a reaffirmation of his commitment to advancing President Bola Tinubu’s food security agenda, serving the best interests of Nigerians, and fostering economic stability and prosperity. 

“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,” the statement explained. “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.”

It added, “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.”