Nigerians Struggle to Access N40,000 Subsidized Rice 

The Federal Government launched the sale of 30,000 metric Tonnes of rice at a subsidized price of N40,000 per 50kg bag on September 5, 2024. This initiative, flagged off by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, is part of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to ensure that “Nigerians do not go to bed hungry. At the launch in Abuja, Kyari explained that high food prices have been caused by challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, climate change, and economic factors in Nigeria. To address this, the government introduced subsidized rice sales, with a “one person, one bag” policy for fair distribution. 

FCT Residents Struggle to Locate Sales Points 

Despite the government’s promises, many residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are struggling to locate the sales points for the subsidized rice. Residents have reported frustration and confusion, as they have not seen any official stores or distribution points. A Kuje Area Council resident, Mrs. Yunusa Eleojo, shared her disappointment after buying a bag of rice for N84,000 from a wholesale vendor. She expressed frustration over the lack of information about where to buy the government’s rice at the promised N40,000 price. Similarly, a Bwari Area Council resident, known as Mama Twins, expressed confusion. “We saw the rice on television, but no one here knows where to get it,” she said. She also raised concerns about middlemen possibly interfering with the distribution. 

Growing Skepticism 

Some FCT residents are skeptical about the entire initiative. Salami Taiwo, another resident, expressed doubt that the N40,000 price would be realistic. “When I heard the price, I knew it wouldn’t happen because of how the government treats us,” he remarked. Efforts to get comments from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security were unsuccessful, as officials did not respond to inquiries. 

The government’s promise of N40,000 subsidized rice has brought hope to many Nigerians, but the inability to access the rice has left residents frustrated. We need more transparency and clear directions to ensure this much-needed relief reaches those who truly need it. 

Residents in Abuja are hopeful that the government will clarify where and how to access the subsidized rice. The success of this initiative depends on resolving the distribution challenges so that the rice can reach the people who need it most.