The Federal Government is broadening its subsidised rice programme to combat food insecurity in Nigeria. Sales of the subsidised rice are set to commence in Lagos, Kano, and Borno states, as announced by a director at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on Monday.
In early September, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Abubakar Kyari introduced the programme, offering 50kg bags of rice at a subsidised price of N40,000 in Abuja. He emphasized that this initiative aims to ensure that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry amid soaring market prices, with current retail prices for a 50kg bag reaching around N90,000 and nearing N100,000 in some areas.
The Federal Government is supplying 30,000 metric tonnes of rice through this programme, equating to approximately 1,000 trucks, each carrying 600 bags. The agriculture ministry official revealed that preparations for sales in Lagos and Kano are imminent, with Borno State also set to be included.
Addressing claims that rice sales in the Federal Capital Territory had ceased, the official clarified, “We have not even gone anywhere; how can we stop? The sales are ongoing, and we are actively engaging with other states.”
Civil servants in Abuja have reportedly been benefiting from the subsidised rice sales. However, an official acknowledged challenges with coordination and public cooperation at the National Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) centre where sales occur. Issues arose from individuals blocking entry and disregarding sales protocols, hindering the process. Some individuals allegedly attempted to sabotage the sales to resell the rice, which undermines the programme’s purpose.
Despite these obstacles, the official expressed optimism about the programme’s impact, stating, “We are focused on ensuring that low-income earners, who are the direct beneficiaries, can access this vital resource.”
The government remains committed to a smooth rollout in the targeted states, reinforcing its efforts to address food scarcity and support vulnerable populations. This initiative aims to make essential staples accessible and affordable for all Nigerians, especially as the country faces escalating food prices exacerbated by the weakening naira.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the food inflation rate in August 2024 was 37.52% year-on-year, an increase from 29.34% in August 2023. The declining strength of the naira has further strained purchasing power. On September 27, 2024, the NAFEM closing rate was reported at N1540.78/$, with some black markets in Abuja selling the dollar for over N1700.
At a recent press conference marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun emphasized the need to reduce food imports, describing it as a cornerstone of the government’s economic recovery plan. “We should not be importing food,” he stated, highlighting the importance of self-sufficiency in domestic food production.
