Hunger: Experts Warn Against Diversion As Nigerian Customs Set To Distribute Seized Food Items

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, is at the verge of distributing seized goods to Nigerians to assist them during the current food crisis.

The NCS made this known in Abuja, the nation’s capital on Tuesday.

The development comes on the back of the federal government announcement today that it was set to release 60,000 metric tones of grains to stabilise prices.

The NCS stated that the items worth billions of naira would first be certified okay by regulatory agencies before distribution.

According to experts, this is a welcome development considering that it will assist to reduce the hunger in the country, amidst Nigerians outburst that they could no longer afford to feed their family due to the high cost of food and other essential households items.

Not a few Nigerians gave throned the major state capitals in the country in the last few days to express their anger over perceived government incapacity to end the food crisis.

The NCS spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada said in a statement today that Adeniyi’s decision to distribute the seized food was borne out of the Service’s quest to assist President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to end the current hunger.

He said the items would be distributed through the NCS Area Offices nationwide, based on transparency, need and fairness.

The statement said in part: “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.”

Meanwhile, those watching the NCS insist that the distribution must be done in such away that those who need the food get it, adding that the Service must ensure that nothing is diverted as it has happened in the past when government distribute palliatives to citizens.