The Federal Government has made moves towards reducing hunger among Nigerians with the expansion of its subsidized rice program to Lagos, Kano, and Borno states.

The initiative aims to provide relief to citizens amid soaring market prices.

The government is providing 30,000 metric tonnes of rice, equivalent to approximately 1,000 trucks carrying 600 bags each, at a subsidized price of N40,000 per 50kg bag. This is lower than the current market price of N90,000 to N100,000 per 50kg bag.

Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, announced the launch of the subsidized rice program in Abuja early in September. “This initiative is part of our broader strategy to ensure that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry,” Kyari stated.

According to an agriculture ministry official, sales will commence in Lagos and Kano states shortly, with Borno State to follow. “As I speak with you now, we are going to activate Lagos and Kano states for the sales any moment from now. Borno State is also going to be addressed,” the official said.

Despite challenges with coordination and public cooperation at the National Agricultural Insurance Corporation centre, the official remains optimistic about the program’s impact. “We are focused on ensuring that low-income earners, who are the direct beneficiaries, can access this vital resource.”

Civil servants in Abuja, particularly around the federal ministries, have been benefiting from the sales of the subsidized rice. However, some individuals have attempted to sabotage the process by buying the rice to resell at market prices.

“Some persons came to sabotage the process to buy and take to the market, which frustrates the essence of the rice subsidy,” the official said.

The source added, “We are focused on ensuring that low-income earners, who are the direct beneficiaries, can access this vital resource.

“The government is committed to a smooth rollout in the aforementioned states, aiming to activate sales any moment from now.”