The Federal Government announced on Monday that it has set up centers across the country where Nigerians can buy a 50kg bag of rice for N40,000.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, shared this update while briefing reporters on the Federal Executive Council meeting led by President Bola Tinubu.
Idris explained that this initiative is part of several efforts by the Tinubu administration to ease living conditions for citizens.
He argued that the planned nationwide protests scheduled to start on August 1 are unnecessary, stating, “President Tinubu is already protesting on behalf of the people.”
Idris emphasized that the government is already addressing the protesters’ demands. He detailed the government’s recent actions, including the distribution of 740 trucks of grains to states and the availability of 50kg bags of rice for N40,000 at designated centers.
He said, “At the last Council meeting, we announced that 20 trucks had been given to each state governor for distribution to those in need.
Additionally, rice is being sold at about 50% of its cost. This rice is available at centers nationwide for N40,000 per bag.”
Idris acknowledged that these supplies might not be enough but described them as necessary first steps, with more interventions to come.
He added that the government expects food prices to drop with the onset of the rainy season and ongoing investments in agriculture.
The minister also mentioned the student loan scheme and the rollout of CNG kits as part of efforts to ease the cost of living. He blamed unavoidable logistical issues for the delay in CNG bus deployment.
Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo highlighted the significant progress made by the administration in its first 13 months, emphasizing the importance of removing the fuel subsidy and promoting local trade in crude oil and refined products.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio warned against anarchy, stressing that while citizens have the right to protest, it should not lead to violence and destabilization.
He urged Nigerian youths not to be misled by groups with hidden agendas.
