The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, will later on Friday, begin the sale of seized bags of rice to the public at the rate of N10,000 per 25kg.
The Comptroller General of the NCS, Mr Adewale Adeniyi, told newsmen in Lagos, on Thursday that buyers have been warned never to resell the seized and auctioned food items.
Adeniyi also warned that customs officers were banned from partaking in the exercise, adding that the rice would come in 25kg, which would be sold for N10,000.
The National Public Relations Officer of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada, had revealed this in a statement on Tuesday.
Giving an update on the criteria, Adeniyi said, eligible persons must provide a Nigerian Identification Number.
“The target groups included artisans, teachers, nurses, religious bodies and other Nigerians within our operational areas. The intention is to reach out directly to members through the organised structures to ensure the maximum impact of this exercise,” Adeniyi added.
He warned against profiteering or exploitation of the initiative.
“It is imperative that beneficiaries of this exercise understand that the items are not to be resold. We take a strong stance against any form of profiteering or exploitation of this initiative. We urge Nigerians to report any incidents of misuse or unauthorised resale of the seized food items.”
He maintained that the NCS was fully committed to transparency and accountability in the process.
“We will not hesitate to take decisive action against any individuals or entities found to be in violation of the terms of this program.”
