Hyacinth Chinweuba
The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, in compliance with order of President Muhammadu Buhari to release confiscated food items for sharing among state governments have commenced action on the release order.
In a statement by DC Joseph Attah, National Public Relations Officer of the Service, “In compliance with the Presidential directive, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col, Hameed Ali (Rtd) has already approved the release of the following relief items to boost the Federal Government continuous efforts to alleviate sufferings associated with the painful but necessary ongoing lockdown in some parts of the Country.”
The items include: Rice 46,000 metric tons (158 trailers)
Vegetable oil (25l) 36,495kegs, (30 trucks), Palm oil 3,428 kegs (1 truck), Tomatoes paste 136,705 cartons, (54 trucks), Spaghetti/Noodles 2,951ctns & 1,253pkts (2trucks), Wrappers (Ankara) 828 bales, (1truck), Lace fabric 2,300 Rolls (1 truck).
Estimated market value of these items is, Three Billion, two Hundred and Fifty One Million, Eight Hundred and Six Thousand Naira.(N3,251,806,000.00) with Duty Paid Value of (N2,034,954,765.00).
The Service said that only edible items certified fit for human consumption by NAFDAC will be released to the public.
“As a responsible agency of Government, NCS appreciates the opportunity of contributing its quota to Federal Government’s continuous efforts to provide relief for Nigerians in this difficult time. NCS remains committed to strictly adhering to all extant laws governing seized and overtime cargoes.
,Despite the prevailing risks, the Service will continue to discharge its functions of securing the land borders and collection of revenue that is needed during and post Covid- 19 pandemic period.
“While urging the officers and men to remain focused on Service delivery, the CGC reminds the operatives and all Nigerians on the need to obey all directives of Government and medical experts to stop the spread of the deadly virus.” the statement said.