FCT Residents Face Difficulties Locating Subsidised N40,000 Rice Distribution Points
Nigerians in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are currently grappling with the challenge of locating sales points for the N40,000 subsidised rice, which was launched by the Federal Government on September 5, 2024. The initiative, flagged off by Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, saw the government offering 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice at a subsidised price of N40,000 per 50kg bag. The goal, as stated by Kyari, is to alleviate hunger and ensure food security in the country, a priority of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
During the launch in Abuja, Kyari attributed the high cost of food in Nigeria to global and local factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, climate change, and domestic economic challenges. He emphasized the government’s commitment to making food affordable and accessible to Nigerians, urging citizens to cooperate with government agencies to ensure a smooth and transparent distribution of the subsidised rice.
A “one person, one bag” policy was introduced to prevent hoarding and ensure fair distribution. Despite these efforts, many residents of the FCT have expressed disappointment over the lack of clarity regarding where to buy the rice. Several have reported that no sales or distribution points have been set up in their areas, leaving them unable to benefit from the subsidised rate.
Mrs. Yunusa Eleojo, a resident of Kuje Area Council, lamented the situation, explaining that she had to buy a bag of rice for N84,000 from a wholesale vendor, more than double the government-promised price. She expressed frustration at the lack of accessible information on where to find the subsidised rice.
Similarly, Mama Twins, a resident of Bwari Area Council, voiced her concerns. She noted that while the government showcased the rice on television, residents in her area have yet to see any distribution points. She also raised concerns about potential exploitation by middlemen who might interfere with the distribution chain.
Salami Taiwo, another FCT resident, expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the initiative, doubting the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.
Efforts to obtain clarification from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security have so far been unsuccessful. Officials have not responded to inquiries, further fueling public frustration.
As FCT residents await more information, the hope remains that the government will swiftly address these distribution challenges and ensure that the subsidised rice reaches those in need, fulfilling the administration’s promise of food security.
