The Federal Government has announced plans to sell 50kg bags of rice for ₦40,000 at designated centers across the country, to address the rising cost of living and ease tensions ahead of the planned nationwide protests.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the announcement during a briefing on the outcome of the Federal Executive Council meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu on Monday.
According to Idris, the initiative is part of the government’s efforts to address the demands of the protest organizers and improve the living conditions of citizens. He noted that the government has already distributed 740 trucks of grains to states and has created centers where citizens can purchase rice at a subsidized price.
Idris emphasized that the government is committed to addressing citizens’ concerns and has taken steps to reduce the cost of living, including the distribution of student loans and the rollout of CNG kits. However, he attributed the delay in the rollout of the CNG buses to logistical impediments.
The minister urged citizens to take advantage of the subsidized rice and other government initiatives, stating that the government is committed to making life easier for Nigerians.
The announcement comes as the planned nationwide protests draw closer, with organizers demanding action on the rising cost of living, insecurity, and other issues. The government’s move is seen as an effort to appease the protesters and address their concerns.
