The Federal Government of Nigeria is expanding its subsidized rice program to address the growing issue of food insecurity across the country. This program, which initially launched in Abuja in September 2024, is being extended to Lagos, Kano, and Borno states. The rice is being sold at N40,000 per 50kg bag, a significant reduction from the market price, which ranges from N90,000 to N100,000.
The initiative aims to provide relief to citizens affected by skyrocketing food prices due to economic challenges, including the weakening of the naira. Nigeria’s food inflation rate in August 2024 was reported at 37.52% by the National Bureau of Statistics. The subsidy program is part of the government’s broader strategy to alleviate hunger and ensure essential staples remain affordable, particularly for low-income citizens.
Despite the success of the program in reaching some federal civil servants in Abuja, officials have acknowledged challenges in managing public cooperation. There were reports of disruptions at distribution centers, where some individuals attempted to circumvent the system, frustrating the program’s intended purpose of supporting vulnerable groups.
Additionally, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, reiterated the government’s commitment to reducing food importation and promoting domestic food production as part of its economic recovery plan. This move is seen as essential to ensuring long-term food security in the country.
