The Nigerian Customs Service attributes the current hardship experienced by Nigerians to illicit exportation by unpatriotic individuals, amid economic reforms undertaken by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, conveyed this message during a visit to the Lamido of Adamawa, Dr. Barkindo Mustapha, in Yola.
Represented by acting Controller Joseph Adelaja, Adeniyi sought collaboration to address the dire food crisis exacerbated by hoarding activities.
He emphasized the need for information to combat hoarding and illicit exportation of essential commodities, contributing to soaring food prices.
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Adelaja condemned the actions of unpatriotic businessmen who prioritize profit over national interest, exporting food commodities while Nigerians suffer from hunger.
In response, Mustapha Aminu, representing the Lamido, acknowledged the indispensable role of customs in national food security and pledged support from the Emirate in addressing the economic food crisis.
Amidst the depreciation of the naira against the US dollar, traders resort to exporting grains to neighboring countries for higher profits due to stronger currencies.
This trend, if unchecked, may exacerbate hoarding and artificial grain scarcity, further escalating food prices and exacerbating the ongoing food crisis.
The country grapples with severe hunger as staple prices surge by over 300%, accompanied by the highest inflation rate in 28 years.
For instance, the price of long grain rice has nearly doubled since December 2023, reflecting the significant economic challenges facing Nigerians.
