Residents of the Federal Capital Territory are finding it difficult to locate sales points for the N40,000 subsidized rice, which the Federal Government officially launched last week.
The initiative, unveiled on September 5, 2024, by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, involved the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice at a subsidized price of N40,000 per 50kg bag.
During the launch in Abuja, Kyari emphasized that the program reflects Bola Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring “Nigerians do not go to bed hungry.”
He also acknowledged the multiple factors contributing to the country’s high food prices, such as the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, climate change, and domestic economic challenges.
“We are all aware that in the recent past, especially after the mass of COVID-19, and due to the Russian-Ukraine war, climate change and other localised factors, challenges food prices, have made it difficult for Nigerians,” Kyari said.
He assured the public that the government has established mechanisms to ensure transparency and facilitate the smooth distribution of subsidized rice.
He called on citizens to collaborate with government agencies to ensure the success of the initiative, stating, “I urge our valued citizens to cooperate with the relevant government agencies working to serve you in achieving this important initiative.”
“Let us work together to ensure that the dream of the present administration to uphold the fundamental right to food for all Nigerians is achieved.”
Kyari also mentioned that to ensure an equitable distribution, the rice sales would adhere to a “one person, one bag” policy.
However, despite the excitement surrounding the launch, residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed frustration at their inability to find designated collection or payment points for the rice.
Many claim that no distribution centers have been established in their localities.
Mrs. Yunusa Eleojo, a resident of Kuje Area Council, voiced her disappointment, stating that she had to purchase a bag of rice from a wholesale vendor for N84,000—more than twice the price promised by the government.
“I only heard the government is selling rice at N40,000 per bag, I don’t know where the stores are located, not to talk of how to buy,” she said.
“I had to buy a bag of rice for N84,000 on Friday from a wholesaler who even claimed it was a wholesale price,” she added.
Another resident of Bwari Area Council, known as Mama Twins, expressed similar concerns.
“We saw them showing rice on the television saying the government is selling rice for N40,000 but up till now, we are not aware of anywhere to buy the rice here,” she said.
She also voiced concerns that intermediaries might exploit the distribution chain, further hindering access to the subsidized rice.
Another FCT resident, Salami Taiwo, expressed doubt about the initiative.
“The moment I heard about the N40,000 per bag of rice, I knew it wouldn’t be feasible given how the government has treated us,” he said.
Attempts to obtain a response from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security were unsuccessful as of press time.
Inquiries directed to the ministry’s Public Affairs Department went unanswered.
As the public awaits clarification on the distribution process for the subsidized rice, frustration among residents continues to mount.
Many hope the challenges will be resolved soon so that the rice reaches those who need it most.
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