Bags of rice are seen at the launch of the largest rice pyramids in Abuja, Nigeria, on January 18, 2022.
The Federal Government has announced that only public servants with valid National Identification Numbers (NIN) will be eligible to purchase subsidized rice as part of its efforts to stabilize food prices in Nigeria. This came as the government flagged off the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, emphasized that the initiative aims to combat racketeering and provide affordable rice to Nigerians.
Represented by President Bola Tinubu, Kyari said, “The rice will be sold strictly on a ‘one person, one bag’ basis, ensuring fair distribution.” The rice, priced at ₦40,000 per 50kg bag, is part of a federal government intervention to alleviate the current food crisis in the country.
Kyari added, “This food intervention comes at a critical time as we face numerous challenges as citizens of this great nation. It is one of the many efforts by this administration to ease the high cost of food.”
He highlighted other government initiatives, such as the release of 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities to vulnerable populations, while underscoring the need to appreciate these efforts.
Kyari attributed the rise in food prices to several global and local factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and climate change. “These challenges are not unique to Nigeria but are part of a broader global issue affecting food security and living standards worldwide.”
To ensure transparency and prevent fraud, the government has implemented strict measures. “Only one bag of rice will be sold per person, and buyers will be required to verify their identity using their NIN or phone numbers. This is to prevent multiple purchases and ensure that the rice reaches those who need it most,” he explained.
Haruna Sule Abutu, the Director of Food and Strategic Reserve in the ministry, outlined the purchase process, which includes using the NIN to generate a code and a Treasury receipt. “This system ensures orderly distribution by eliminating the possibility of a stampede,” Abutu said.
Kyari called on Nigerians to support the initiative and have faith in President Tinubu’s administration, expressing optimism that ongoing efforts to improve food security would soon yield results.
“We believe that with the release of 30,000 metric tonnes of rice, not only will the price of rice drop, but also other food staples,” Kyari concluded.
