FG Launches Subsidized Rice Sale with NIN-Based Verification

The Federal Government has launched a sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice at a subsidized rate of ₦40,000 per 50kg bag. This initiative is aimed at alleviating the food crisis in Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Abubakar Kyari, announced the commencement of this intervention during a flag-off ceremony on Thursday.

Kyari emphasized that the rice will be distributed on a “one person, one bag” basis to ensure fair access. Each 50kg bag will be sold at a flat rate of ₦40,000, part of the government’s broader effort to mitigate the high cost of food commodities in the country.

The Minister highlighted the timeliness of the initiative, noting it as a significant measure by the current administration to address the economic challenges faced by Nigerians. He also mentioned other efforts, such as the release of 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities to vulnerable populations, as part of the government’s ongoing food security measures.

To ensure transparency and fairness in distribution, Kyari outlined that a multi-disciplinary government task force has been established. This task force will use National Identification Numbers (NIN) and phone numbers to verify buyers and prevent fraud, making sure no individual acquires more than one bag.

Director of Strategic Grains Reserve, Haruna Sule, detailed the purchasing process. Civil servants can access the rice at designated sale points by providing their Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) details or NIN. At the point of sale, a code number and Treasury receipt will be generated for the buyer.

Sule explained that once the code number is issued, buyers can proceed to the collection point to pick up their rice. This process is designed to avoid overcrowding and ensure orderly distribution. The receipt will indicate both the collection time and location.

In July, Minister of Information Idris Mohammed had previously announced a similar rice subsidy plan. However, the initiative was later suspended by the Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs without explanation. The current sale marks the resumption of this food assistance program.