Story Summary:
- Frustration Over Subsidized Rice: Nigerians are struggling to find the N40,000 per kilogram bag of rice launched by the Federal Government.
- Government Initiative: The rice, meant to be sold at a subsidized rate of N40,000 per 50kg bag, was introduced by Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, as part of President Bola Tinubu’s food security plan.
- Public Outcry: Abuja residents are unable to locate sale points for the subsidized rice, with some purchasing local rice at higher prices due to the unavailability.
- Call for Transparency: Critics, including Amina Aliyu, are demanding clear information on the distribution process, questioning why the rice is not visible despite its launch.
- Economic Context: The issue comes amid rising petrol prices and high inflation, with concerns that government policies are not effectively addressing economic challenges.
Nigerians are voicing frustration over the lack of availability of the N40,000 per kilogram bag of rice launched by the Federal Government last week. On Thursday, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, announced the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice at a subsidized rate of N40,000 per 50kg bag.
This initiative is part of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to ensure that “Nigerians do not go to bed hungry.”
Kyari emphasized that only those with a National Identity Number are eligible to purchase the subsidized rice. However, Abuja residents are reporting difficulty in finding any locations where the rice is sold.
Benedicta Okoro, a civil servant in Kubwa, expressed her frustration, noting that she could not locate a seller and had to buy local rice for N84,000 per 50kg bag from Dutse Market instead.
Another resident, Amina Aliyu, has called on the government to clarify the situation, questioning why the subsidized rice is not available despite its launch.
She highlighted that previous initiatives have faced similar issues, with promised supplies failing to materialize before being suspended.
As of the time of this report, an inquiry to Joel Oruche, Director of Communications at the Ministry, remains unanswered.
This development adds to the public’s distress over the recent petrol price hike, which, coupled with a 33.40% inflation rate as of July 2024, could exacerbate the cost of goods and services in Nigeria. Financial analyst Kalu Aja has criticized President Tinubu’s government for failing to match its policies with tangible actions.
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