FG Begins Distribution of Subsidized 50kKG Bags Of Rice, Gives Condition To Beneficiaries

The Federal Government has announced a new initiative aimed at alleviating Nigeria’s food crisis by offering 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice at a subsidised rate of ₦40,000 per 50kg bag.

This intervention is exclusively available to individuals with a National Identification Number (NIN), with the policy stipulating a “one person, one bag” limitation.

During the flag-off ceremony on Thursday, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Abubakar Kyari, underscored the importance of the programme.

Kyari highlighted that this initiative is part of a broader effort by the administration to mitigate the impact of soaring food prices.

He emphasized that the subsidized rice, priced uniformly at ₦40,000 per 50kg bag, is a strategic move to ease the food crisis facing the nation.

Kyari elaborated that the intervention is timely, given the current economic challenges.

He also mentioned other government efforts, including the release of 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities to vulnerable populations.

The aim is to alleviate food insecurity and stabilize food prices in Nigeria.

To ensure fairness and transparency in the distribution process, a multi-disciplinary government task force has been assigned to oversee the initiative.

Kyari stressed that stringent measures are in place to prevent individuals from acquiring more than their allotted bag, with verification carried out through NIN and phone numbers to avoid fraudulent practices.

Kyari further encouraged citizens to cooperate with government agencies involved in the initiative.

He anticipates that the introduction of 30,000 metric tonnes of rice into the market will not only reduce the price of rice but also positively influence the cost of related food items.

Director of Strategic Grains Reserve at the Ministry of Agriculture, Haruna Sule, detailed the purchasing procedure.

Civil servants can access the rice by presenting their Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) details at designated sales points.

To qualify, buyers must have either an NIN, phone number, or IPPIS registration.

At the sales point, buyers with a registered NIN will receive a code and a Treasury receipt.

This receipt will specify the collection time and location. Buyers must present this code at the collection centre to receive their rice, ensuring a structured and orderly distribution process.

Earlier, in July, the Minister of Information, Idris Mohammed, had announced the sale of subsidized rice. Subsequently, the Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs directed civil servants to register for this purchase.

However, the plan was later suspended without further explanation.