The Federal Government has launched a scheme in Ogun State to sell 50kg bags of rice at a subsidized rate of ₦40,000, beginning in Abeokuta.
This initiative aims to ease the economic challenges faced by citizens following the removal of fuel subsidies.
Governor Dapo Abiodun announced that the state government would expand the scheme to cover all twenty local government areas, ensuring widespread availability of rice, garri, and beans at reduced prices.
The distribution strategy includes collaboration with the Head of Service, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the National Security Adviser’s office to guarantee fair access.
The rice sales will be distributed across three major zones: Ogun Central (Abeokuta), Ogun West (Ilaro), and Ogun East (Ijebu-Ode). Specific groups like civil servants, artisans, trade unions, market women, and community associations will benefit from the arrangement.
The process mandates verification of beneficiaries’ National Identity Numbers (NIN) to avoid duplications, with payments made via PoS systems to ensure transparency.
Governor Abiodun encouraged orderly conduct at the sales points and promised more locations would be established to accommodate demand.
He expressed appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts in addressing food inflation, noting that the liberalization of petroleum product sales was necessary to prevent excessive financial strain on the country.
