The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has commenced the sale of seized food items across the country.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, disclosed that the Federal Government mandated the distribution of these seized food items in a bid to alleviate the current hardships faced by Nigerians.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos during the flag-off of the sales, Adeniyi, said thatt the sale of rice will begin at all Customs formations where seized items are available from Friday, February 23, 2024 at N10,000 per 25kg and N20,000 for 50kg.
He, however, disclosed that the items will be sold to only Nigerians with genuine needs and will work with the Police Force to maintain the integrity of the exercise.
According to him, the criteria include having a verifiable National Identity Number (NIN) and the targeted beneficiaries are faith-based organisations, artisans, teachers, among others
The Customs CG, however, disclosed that should the products be found in commercial stores, it will be seized while the store will be sealed and the owner(s) prosecuted.