The Federal Government of Nigeria has stated that only people with National Identification Numbers (NIN) can purchase the subsidised rice at N40,000 per 50kg.
This was disclosed in a statement by Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, on Friday.
According to Kyari, the President Bola Tinubu-led government has injected 30,000 metric tonnes of rice into the market, adding that the sale will be strictly on a “one person, one bag” basis.
“The Federal Government has introduced a policy to ensure transparency and prevent racketeering in the distribution of subsidised rice.
“Only those with duly registered National Identification Numbers (NIN) will be allowed to purchase the rice, which is part of a broader effort to address the prevailing food crises in the country.
“The rice will be sold at a flat rate of ₦40,000 per 50kg bag, and it is a crucial intervention aimed at mitigating the effects of high food prices.
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“This initiative is one of the many measures taken by the administration to cushion the impact of rising food costs, which have been exacerbated by factors such as COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change. While these challenges are global, the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring food security for all Nigerians.
“To maintain fairness and prevent abuse of the system, the sale will be strictly on a “one person, one bag” basis. Verification of beneficiaries will be carried out using the NIN and other relevant identification methods to prevent multiple purchases by fraudulent individuals.
“I urge all citizens to cooperate with the relevant authorities to ensure the success of this initiative and to uphold the fundamental right to food for all Nigerians.
“With the injection of 30,000 metric tonnes of rice into the market, we expect not only to reduce the price of rice but also to stabilise the prices of other food commodities.
“I call on Nigerians to remain patient and steadfast as the administration’s efforts to enhance food security will soon begin to yield positive results,” the statement read.