Abeokuta, Nigeria – The Federal Government commenced the sale of rice at a subsidized rate on Thursday in Ogun State, a move aimed at alleviating the impact of food inflation on the citizens.
The initiative was launched during a ceremony attended by various stakeholders, including the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, who emphasized its significance in providing relief to Nigerians.
Kyari, represented by Mrs. Toyin Ayo-Ajayi, the State Director of the Ministry, stated that the rice distribution program is one of several initiatives designed to support citizens during these challenging times. “This is one of the numerous programmes initiated to bring succour and relief to Nigerians,” he said.
To ensure the process is transparent and fair, the Minister revealed that the distribution would be closely monitored by several Federal Government agencies. Measures have been put in place to guarantee that the subsidized rice reaches its intended beneficiaries effectively.
Individuals wishing to purchase a 50kg bag of rice at the subsidized rate of N40,000 will need to present their National Identification Number (NIN) and an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card. This requirement aims to streamline the purchasing process and ensure that only eligible citizens benefit from the program.
Kyari expressed his appreciation for Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to the welfare of the state’s citizens, highlighting that Ogun is among the first states in Nigeria to benefit from the initiative.
He attributed this success to the governor’s “tenacity and visionary leadership,” stating that Ogun has developed an organized framework to facilitate the distribution of rice across its three Senatorial districts.
“I want to specifically applaud Gov. Dapo Abiodun for his commitment to the welfare of the citizens of the state. Ogun has one of the most organised templates ensuring that this gets to the three Senatorial districts of the state and all at the grassroots,” Kyari noted.
In his address, Gov. Abiodun praised President Bola Tinubu’s initiative as a testament to his commitment to addressing food inflation and improving the livelihoods of the people.
He highlighted the importance of the agricultural sector in ensuring food security and expressed gratitude to the President for his unwavering dedication to supporting this vital area.
“This initiative is part of the broader strategy by President Tinubu’s administration to tackle food inflation and enhance the living standards of our citizens,” Abiodun said.
He encouraged citizens to support government efforts and recognize the importance of such initiatives in ensuring food availability and affordability.
The subsidized rice sale in Ogun State is part of a larger national effort aimed at addressing rising food costs and improving food security across Nigeria.
As the government implements these programs, it hopes to provide tangible relief to citizens grappling with the effects of inflation and enhance the agricultural sector’s role in the economy.
Citizens are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity, as the government continues its commitment to ensuring that essential food items remain accessible to all.
