The Nigerian Government has announced a new initiative to sell 30,000 metric tonnes of subsidized milled rice, starting September 5, 2024.
President Bola Tinubu, who was represented at the flag off by Abubakar Kyari, the minister of agriculture and food security, said the intervention will be sold strictly “one man to one bag or one woman to one bag” and will be sold at a fixed price of ₦40,000 for a 50kg bag.
This move is part of the government’s effort to reduce food prices and combat food insecurity exacerbated by factors like COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change.
To prevent racketeering and ensure fair distribution, the government will enforce a policy of “one man, one bag” or “one woman, one bag.” Public servants and other buyers must present a valid National Identification Number (NIN) to purchase the rice. This requirement is intended to curb fraudulent activities and ensure that the rice reaches intended beneficiaries.
The Director of Food and Strategic Reserve Haruna Sule Abutu explained the purchase procedure. Buyers must have a National Identification Number, a phone number, or be registered under the Integrated Payroll and Personal Information System (IPPIS). At the point of sale, an NIN will generate a code and a Treasury receipt, which will specify the time and location for rice collection to avoid overcrowding.
Kyari urged Nigerians to cooperate with the initiative and be patient, promising that these efforts will soon improve food security and stabilize prices.
