Kehinde Fajobi
The Federal Government has launched the sale of rice at a subsidised rate in Ogun State, aiming to provide relief amid economic challenges.
The initiative was inaugurated on Thursday in Abeokuta by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, represented by Mrs Toyin Ayo-Ajayi, the ministry’s State Director.
Kyari described the programme as “one of the numerous initiatives to bring succour and relief to Nigerians” and highlighted that multiple Federal Government agencies are overseeing the distribution to ensure transparency and fairness.
The Minister explained that each individual would need a National Identification Number (NIN) and an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card to purchase a 50kg bag of rice for ₦40,000.
He praised Ogun State’s Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for his efforts in making the programme successful.
“Ogun is one of the first states to benefit from this initiative due to the governor’s tenacity and visionary leadership,” Kyari said, adding that the state’s well-organised distribution system ensures the rice reaches all three senatorial districts.
Governor Abiodun, in his remarks, commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to addressing food inflation and improving citizens’ livelihoods. He noted that this initiative demonstrates the government’s responsiveness, particularly in the wake of fuel subsidy removal.
“This intervention will greatly help cushion the impact of the subsidy removal on our people,” Abiodun said, expressing appreciation for the federal government’s continued support of the agricultural sector and its role in enhancing food security.