Customs Reaffirms Commitment to Tinubu’s Food Security Plan at Book Launch

Customs Reaffirms Commitment to Tinubu’s Food Security Plan at Book Launch

The Nigeria Customs Service has pledged to streamline its processes in support of President Bola Tinubu's food security initiative. Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, made this commitment on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, during the launch of a book titled "Impactful Public Relations in Customs Management" at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja. The book, authored by Image Merchants Promotion Limited, highlights progressive public relations strategies implemented by the Customs Service.

CGC Adeniyi emphasized the agency's dedication to facilitating the swift importation of food items, adhering to standards that will reduce costs and ultimately lower consumer prices. He reiterated the Customs Service's commitment to tackling food security challenges through measures aimed at boosting agricultural production.

"In line with our vast agricultural potential, the government is actively providing incentives to farmers to increase food production," Adeniyi stated. He also mentioned an ambitious goal to cultivate over 10 million hectares of land, which will not only enhance food security but also capitalize on Nigeria's abundant arable land, of which only 40% is currently utilized.

In response to rising food prices, Adeniyi announced that the Federal Government has temporarily removed tariffs and import duties on essential staples such as rice, wheat, maize, and sorghum for the next six months. He highlighted the vital role of the Customs Service in safeguarding Nigeria's international trade and supporting agricultural production through streamlined processes.

Citing a 2017 Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) report, Adeniyi noted, "Nigeria boasts 84 million hectares of arable land, of which only 40% is currently cultivated. This presents an enormous opportunity for agricultural expansion."

The event, which coincided with the 2nd Economic Confidential Annual Lecture, was chaired by Tope Fasua, Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Economy, who represented Vice President Kashim Shettima. Fasua commended the publishers, Image Merchants Promotion Limited, for their dedication to research and investigative journalism, and praised the Customs Service for its role in safeguarding Nigeria's borders and boosting the economy.

Yushau Shauib, CEO of Image Merchants Promotion Limited, expressed deep appreciation for CGC Adeniyi’s effective engagement with the media and his transformative leadership in public relations within the Customs Service. He described the book as a tribute to Adeniyi’s commitment to transparency and effective communication.

The launch was attended by key stakeholders, industry experts, and members of the Nigeria Customs Service Management Team, who underscored the importance of effective communication in public service.