The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced that only public servants with a duly registered National Identification Number (NIN) will be eligible to purchase rice as it begins the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice. This measure, aimed at curbing racketeering and addressing rising food prices, was disclosed by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, during the flag-off ceremony.
Kyari, who was represented by President Bola Tinubu at the event, emphasized the strict “one man, one bag” policy. The subsidized rice will be sold at a flat rate of ₦40,000 for a 50kg bag. This intervention is part of a broader government effort to ease food insecurity caused by global and local challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change.
“This food intervention is timely, considering the challenges we face as a nation,” Kyari said, highlighting the government’s ongoing efforts to lower food prices through the release of both 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities and 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice.
To ensure transparency, buyers must verify their identity using the NIN or their phone number. Public servants will also be registered under the Integrated Payroll and Personal Information System (IPPIS). A code and Treasury receipt will be generated at the point of sale, allowing purchasers to collect their rice without issues such as crowding or duplication of sales.
The Minister called on Nigerians to remain patient, stating that the government’s various food security efforts would soon yield positive results. The introduction of the rice is expected to lower the cost of rice and other food items across Nigerian markets.
Haruna Sule Abutu, the director of food and strategic reserves, outlined the purchase process, ensuring that only eligible citizens will benefit from the subsidized rice program.
