The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, while launching the initiative, stated that the program aims to curb racketeering and help reduce food prices in Nigerian markets.
Representing President Bola Tinubu, Kyari explained that the intervention would be strictly “one person, one bag,” with each 50kg bag of rice sold at a flat rate of ₦40,000. This is part of the federal government’s effort to offer subsidized milled rice to alleviate the ongoing food crisis in the country.
“This intervention is timely given the current challenges faced by citizens of our great nation,” Kyari said. He also praised the administration for its various efforts to mitigate the high cost of food, including the release of 42,000MT of Assorted Food Commodities (AFC) to vulnerable groups and the 30,000MT of milled rice being launched for sale on September 5, 2024.
Kyari attributed the rise in food prices to factors such as COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, climate change, and other localized challenges, which have contributed to global food insecurity and a decline in living standards. “The present challenges are not unique to our nation,” he added.
Aware of the potential risks of selling such an essential staple at this critical time, Kyari explained that the federal government has implemented measures to ensure transparency and broad access to the subsidized rice. These measures include limiting purchases to one 50kg bag per person and verifying buyers through National Identification Numbers (NIN) and phone numbers to prevent fraud.
“We urge citizens to cooperate with the authorities to ensure the success of this initiative and uphold the fundamental right to food for all Nigerians. The introduction of 30,000MT (equivalent to 1,000 trucks of 30MT each) into Nigeria’s food supply will not only reduce the price of rice but also affect prices of other food substitutes,” he stated.
Kyari called on Nigerians to be patient, assuring them that the administration’s efforts to improve food security would soon yield results.
Haruna Sule Abutu, Director of Food and Strategic Reserve at the ministry, outlined the procedure for purchasing the subsidized rice. To qualify for the program, buyers must provide their NIN or phone number. Public service employees registered under the Integrated Payroll and Personal Information System (IPPIS) platform are also eligible. Upon verification, a Treasury receipt and collection code will be issued, indicating the time and place of collection to prevent overcrowding at distribution centers.
