The Federal Government Limits 30,000 Metric Tonnes of Milled Rice Sale to Public Servants with Registered National Identification Numbers (NIN)
Minister of Agriculture Abubakar Kyari, representing President Bola Tinubu, launched the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of subsidized milled rice, aimed at curbing racketeering and lowering food prices in Nigerian markets. The initiative allows each individual to purchase only one 50kg bag at a flat rate of ₦40,000. Kyari emphasized the timely nature of this intervention as a response to the ongoing food crisis in the country.
In a bid to alleviate the impact of rising food prices, the Minister announced the administration’s initiatives, including the distribution of 42,000MT of assorted food commodities to vulnerable populations and the launch of the sale of 30,000MT of milled rice on September 5, 2024. He attributed the soaring food costs to factors such as COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and climate change, emphasizing that these challenges are not unique to Nigeria. The Minister reassured the public that the federal government has implemented a comprehensive strategy to ensure transparency and success in the rice sales, recognizing the importance of this staple during these critical times.
The initiative allows each individual to purchase one 50kg bag of rice, with verification processes in place to ensure that beneficiaries use valid identification methods, such as the National Identification Number (NIN) and phone numbers, to prevent fraudulent access to this essential commodity. The Minister urged citizens to cooperate with the authorities to realize the administration’s goal of ensuring food security for all Nigerians. He stated that the introduction of 30,000MT of rice—equivalent to 1,000 trucks—into the market is expected to lower rice prices and positively impact the cost of related food substitutes. He encouraged Nigerians to remain patient and steadfast, assuring them that the President’s ongoing efforts to enhance food security will soon yield results.
Haruna Sule Abutu, Director of Food and Strategic Reserve at the ministry, outlined the process for purchasing the subsidized rice. ‘To qualify for the one bag per person, you must possess a National Identification Number, a phone number, or be registered under the Integrated Payroll and Personal Information System (IPPIS) if you are a public servant,’ he explained. ‘At the point of sale, once your NIN is entered into the system, a code number and Treasury receipt will be generated. This receipt will provide details on the time and location for collection, ensuring an orderly process and preventing overcrowding at collection centers.
