The Controller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adeniyi, has announced the suspension of import duties and taxes on essential food items by the Federal Government to make basic needs of Nigerians more affordable and address the widespread issue of hunger in the country.
In a public address on Monday evening, Adeniyi acknowledged widespread economic challenges and outlined the government’s resolve to ease the economic burden on the people.
He acknowledged that global inflation has affected countries around the world, including Nigeria, and noted that in response, the Federal Government, through the Nigerian Customs Service, is suspending import duties and taxes to make essential food items more affordable.
Adeniyi also noted that the NCS has streamlined the export process to facilitate the efficient movement of Nigerian products to international markets.
He said the effort includes the introduction of advanced regulatory regimes, licensed economic operators, and time-lag studies aimed at promoting trade, revitalizing the economy, and creating new opportunities.
Adeniyi stressed that these reforms will provide farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs with faster routes to global markets, thereby benefiting their families and communities.
“We are committed to implementing these measures seamlessly to address the problem of hunger in our nation,” he added.
He said that in addition to the economic measures, the NCS is intensifying efforts to combat the proliferation of arms and dangerous weapons across Nigeria’s land, sea, and airports.
Adeniyi stressed the importance of joint efforts to strengthen borders and peaceful progress. He warned that the disruption of supply chains will negatively impact foreign investment, distort trade, promote insecurity, increase shortages, and hinder tax collection.
“In these challenging times, let us unite in resilience and cooperation. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who have embraced the path of peace and dialogue,” he said.
Adeniyi called on all Nigerians to work constructively and cooperate to overcome current challenges and build a better future.
