The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice to Nigerians at a subsidized price of ₦40,000 per 50kg bag. The initiative, flagged off by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, is aimed at mitigating the impact of the ongoing food crisis in the country.
During the launch on September 5, 2024, Kyari highlighted that the subsidized rice will be sold on a strict “one person, one bag” basis. To qualify, buyers must present their National Identification Number (NIN) and phone numbers. Public servants can also use their Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) details to purchase the rice.
Kyari emphasized that this food intervention is one of several measures taken by the current administration to reduce the high cost of food commodities. He further assured that a government task force has been deployed to ensure transparency and broad distribution.
Buyers will receive a code number and treasury receipt after verification, which will enable them to collect their rice at designated collection points.
This initiative follows a previously suspended plan by the government to sell subsidized rice, which was announced in July.
