The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the extension of its subsidized rice sales initiative, initially launched in Abuja, to include Lagos, Kano, and Borno States.
This move is part of the government’s commitment to tackle food insecurity and ensure affordable access to staple foods for all Nigerians.
A director at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the forthcoming sales during an interview with Punch.
“As I speak with you now, we are going to activate Lagos and Kano states for the sales any moment from now. Borno State is also going to be addressed,” the official stated.
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This expansion follows the initial sale of 50kg bags of rice at the subsidized price of ₦40,000, which was launched by Minister Abubakar Kyari in September.
Despite rumors of a suspension of sales in Abuja, the official clarified, “We have not even gone anywhere; how can we stop? The sales are ongoing.”
Challenges have arisen during the program’s implementation, with reports of overcrowding and non-compliance at sales points.
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The official lamented, “We opened the NAIC centre to see the cooperation of the public, but they proved very difficult to control.” Some individuals reportedly attempted to buy rice in bulk for resale, undermining the subsidy’s purpose.
The government remains focused on ensuring that low-income earners can access this vital resource. “The government is committed to a smooth rollout in the aforementioned states, aiming to activate sales any moment from now,” the source added.
Market surveys indicate that the average price of a 50kg bag of rice has surged to between ₦80,000 and ₦90,000, highlighting the necessity of the subsidy initiative to alleviate the financial burden on Nigerian families.
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