Nigerian Government Begins Nationwide Sale of Subsidised Locally Milled Rice at N40,000 Per 50kg Bag

The Nigerian government has launched the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of locally milled rice to citizens at a subsidised rate of N40,000 per 50kg bag. This initiative, aimed at easing the burden of rising food costs, was inaugurated by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, in Abuja on Thursday.

Sen. Kyari highlighted that the rice distribution will take place across the country and comes at a critical time, given the economic challenges facing Nigeria. He noted that this initiative was a directive from President Bola Tinubu, who is committed to ensuring no Nigerian goes to bed hungry.

“The food intervention is timely, considering the current difficulties citizens are facing. This historic sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice at a subsidised rate is a testament to the President’s commitment to alleviating hunger,” Kyari said.

The minister also acknowledged the global factors that have contributed to rising food prices, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change, noting that Nigeria has not been immune to these challenges.

To ensure transparency and prevent exploitation, a robust verification process will be implemented. Each beneficiary is eligible to purchase one 50kg bag of rice, and individuals must present identification, such as a National Identification Number (NIN) or phone number, to avoid multiple purchases by fraudulent individuals.

Kyari emphasized the importance of citizen cooperation with government agencies to ensure the success of the initiative, which is expected to stabilize rice prices and influence the cost of other staple foods.

In her remarks, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Bunkure, described the event as a significant step towards enhancing the wellbeing of Nigerians. She stated that the 30,000 metric tonnes of rice reflect the federal government’s commitment to achieving food security.

Dr. Haruna Sule, Director of Strategic Grains Reserve at the Ministry of Agriculture, outlined the payment process for civil servants, who can purchase the rice using their Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) or NIN. Payments will be made electronically, with receipts issued to avoid overcrowding at distribution points.

The rice distribution is expected to take place across various locations, including multiple sales points in Abuja, with the sale continuing until the entire stock is distributed.

The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to tackle food insecurity and stabilize the price of essential commodities.