How to Buy the Customs Seized Rice at N10,000 Per 25Kg

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has officially commenced its initiative to distribute seized food items at discounted prices. The exercise, flagged off on February 23rd, 2024, aims to alleviate economic hardship for Nigerians and improve their access to essential food items.

Seizure and Distribution

The NCS, on Thursday, initiated the distribution of seized food items to vulnerable Nigerians. The event was flagged off by the CGC at the Zone A Command of the Service in Lagos. Adeniyi revealed that these items were part of the goods seized by the Service in recent times. Notably, the distribution comes in response to the alarming trend of certain groups exporting food items in large quantities, thereby contributing to the existing scarcity.

Addressing Food Security Concerns

The CGC highlighted the challenges faced by the Nigerian economy, including the lingering effects of insecurity and exchange rate issues. These challenges have intensified concerns about food security, prompting the NCS to take swift action. The outflow of food items in significant volumes poses a direct threat to the country’s productive capacity and overall food security.

NCS’s Mandate and Measures

Adeniyi emphasized the NCS’s commitment to protecting the country’s borders from the illegal movement of goods. As part of this commitment, the Service has implemented measures to ensure the secure and transparent distribution of seized food items. These measures include robust security protocols, close monitoring of the supply chain, and collaboration with relevant agencies to enforce program compliance.

Discounted Rates and Eligibility Criteria

Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi disclosed that each 25kg bag of rice will be sold at the discounted rate of N10,000. The items available for sale during the exercise include rice, beans, millet, guinea corn, soya beans, and garri. To be eligible to participate, beneficiaries must possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).

Strategic Locations and Transparent Process

The pilot exercise commenced at the Zone A Headquarters of the service in Lagos, with plans to replicate it across all customs formations where these items are domiciled. Adeniyi emphasized the NCS’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and public safety. To ease the process, 10 payment points were created at the venue to facilitate the free flow of disposal.

Strict Measures Against Reselling

Adeniyi issued a stern warning against reselling the purchased items, stating that any shop found with these items would be sealed, and the owner subjected to rigorous questioning and potential prosecution for economic sabotage. The NCS is ever ready to ensure that the benefits of the exercise reach those most in need and prevent any exploitation or profiteering.

Collaboration with Security Agencies

To ensure the security and integrity of the initiative, the NCS collaborated with other security agencies such as the police and DSS. Customs, being the lead agency, worked closely with the office of the National Security Adviser to coordinate the exercise and prevent any potential breach of security.

Expanding the Initiative Nationally

Following the pilot exercise, the NCS plans to replicate the disposal exercise at all customs formations across the country where these seized food items are stored. This nationwide approach underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring food security for the people.

Transparency, Fairness, and Public Safety

The statement assures the public that the modalities for disposal will be communicated through NCS formations nationwide. There is a firm commitment to transparency, fairness, and public safety throughout the process. The NCS pledges to manage this exercise diligently, ensuring that the benefits reach those most in need.

NCS ZONAL HEADQUARTERS.

For those interested in participating in the Nigeria Customs Service’s food distribution initiative, the exercise is being carried out across different Zones and their respective Area Commands. Here are the details for each Zone:

ZONE A

• Location: Harvey Road, Yaba, Lagos
• Telephone: 01-4705576, 5821496
• Email: zonea@customs.gov.ng
• Area Commands: APAPA, MMIA, OGUN, OSUN/OYO, ONDO/ EKITI, TIN-CAN, LILYPOND, SEME, LAGOS IND. KLT,OGUN II, MMAC, LFTZ, PTML, WMC

ZONE B

• Location: Kaduna
• Telephone: 062-249423
• Email: zoneb@customs.gov.ng
• Area Commands: KADUNA, KATSINA, KANO/ JIGAWA, SOKOTO/ZAMFARA, KOGI/ NIGER, FCT,/ KWARA, KEBBI, NWMC

ZONE C

• Location: Port/Harcourt
• Telephone: 084-2316691
• Email: zonec@customs.gov.ng
• Area Commands: ABIA/ IMO, ANAMBRA/ ENUGU/ EBONYI, PH I, ONNE, EDO /DELTA, CROSS RIVER/AKWA IBOM, CFTZ, OIL & GAS ONNE, EASTERN MARINE.

ZONE D

• Location: Bauchi
• Telephone: 077-542894
• Email: zoned@customs.gov.ng
• Area Commands: BAUCHI/ GOMBE, BORNO/ YOBE, ADAMAWA/ TARABA, BENUE/ PLATEAU/ NASARAWA, NORTH EASTERN MARINE.

To participate in the exercise, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including possessing a valid National Identification Number (NIN).

NCS HEADQUARTERS CONTACT INFORMATION

If you need to reach out to the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters for general inquiries or assistance, here are the contact details:

• Location: Abidjan Street, Wuse, P.M.B. 26, Zone 3, Abuja – FCT, Nigeria
• Telephone: 07037891156
• Email:
  • General Information: info@customs.gov.ng
  • Helpdesk: helpdesk@customs.gov.ng
  • Public Relations: pro@customs.gov.ng
  • Official website https://customs.gov.ng/

Conclusion

The Nigeria Customs Service’s initiative to distribute seized food items at discounted rates is a significant step towards mitigating food security challenges and supporting vulnerable Nigerians. With a focus on transparency, eligibility criteria, and collaboration with security agencies, the NCS aims to ensure the success and impact of this exercise in the ongoing efforts to secure food availability in the country.