The Nigerian government has launched a sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice, available only to public servants with valid National Identification Numbers (NIN). Priced at ₦40,000 per 50kg bag, this initiative aims to curb racketeering and combat rising food prices amid ongoing challenges.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice, with a significant stipulation: only public servants possessing valid National Identification Numbers (NIN) will be permitted to purchase the rice, priced at ₦40,000 per 50kg bag. This announcement was made during the launch of the sale by Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, in the presence of President Bola Tinubu.
Kyari stated that this initiative aims to prevent racketeering and ensure that the subsidized rice reaches the intended beneficiaries. He emphasized a strict "one bag per person" policy to eliminate fraudulent practices and promote equitable access to this vital food resource. The Minister described the intervention as timely, considering the pressing challenges Nigerians face, and he linked the escalating food prices to various global and local factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
This sale is part of the government's broader strategy to address the rising cost of food and enhance food security in Nigeria. Kyari highlighted that, in addition to the rice initiative, the government has also distributed 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food items to support vulnerable communities.
To obtain the subsidized rice, eligible individuals must provide their NIN and phone numbers at the point of sale. The system will generate a unique code and Treasury receipt, directing buyers to their specific collection points. Kyari urged Nigerians to support this initiative, assuring them that the government's ongoing efforts will yield positive results in improving food accessibility.
