In an effort to combat rising food prices, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has implemented a series of strategic initiatives aimed at reducing food inflation and ensuring food security.
The Comptroller-General Wale Adeniyi, in a press briefing yesterday in Abuja, marking his one year in office highlighted the significant contributions of the NCS in addressing these critical issues over the past year.
He said between June 2023 and May 2024, the NCS reported substantial progress in its anti-smuggling efforts, which have played a vital role in stabilizing food prices.
The service intercepted 1,744 cases of rice and grain smuggling, with a total value of ₦4.4 billion. By preventing these illegal imports, the NCS has helped to protect local farmers and maintain fair market prices for agricultural products.
Adeniyi emphasized that the NCS's efforts to combat smuggling are not limited to food products. The service's comprehensive anti-smuggling strategy also includes the seizure of 2.93 million liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and significant quantities of illicit drugs, arms, and ammunition.
These measures contribute to overall national security and economic stability, indirectly supporting efforts to control food inflation.
The custom boss said one of the key initiatives introduced by the NCS is the decongestion of ports, which has facilitated the smoother and faster movement of goods.
The reopening of previously inaccessible access roads and the designation of a dedicated terminal for exports have significantly improved the efficiency of trade operations. The Lilypond command, for instance, now handles 7,464 Single Goods Declarations (SGDs), which accounts for 19.49% of the total export transactions recorded in 2023.
This increased efficiency helps to reduce the cost of importing and exporting food products, ultimately benefiting consumers.
Furthermore, the NCS has engaged in collaborative efforts with relevant stakeholders to enhance trade facilitation. By working closely with other government agencies, international partners, and private sector stakeholders.
The NCS has fostered a more conducive environment for trade. These partnerships have led to smoother operations and improved compliance with customs regulations, contributing to the overall goal of reducing food inflation.
Adeniyi also highlighted the NCS's commitment to transparency and accountability. The service has instituted a routine of quarterly reports to update the public on its activities and progress. This initiative ensures that the NCS remains open to constructive criticism and continues to address any challenges that may arise.
The NCS's efforts have been recognized in the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) ranking, where the service achieved an 81.5% gain in reform indices.
The NCS's ranking among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) improved significantly, moving up 33 places to be among the top four out of 36 assessed. This remarkable improvement underscores the effectiveness of the NCS's initiatives in promoting a stable and efficient trade environment.
In conclusion, the Nigeria Customs Service, under the leadership of Comptroller-General Wale Adeniyi, has made significant strides in addressing food inflation through strategic anti-smuggling efforts, enhanced trade facilitation, and collaborative partnerships.
These measures not only help to stabilize food prices but also contribute to the broader goals of national security and economic stability. As the NCS continues to implement and refine these initiatives, it remains committed to ensuring a safer and more prosperous Nigeria for all.
