Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, on Wednesday, officially launched the sale of subsidized food items, including a 50-kilogram bag of rice priced at ₦38,700, aimed at alleviating the economic strain on residents, particularly those in rural areas.
The launch event, held in Kware town at the Kware Local Government premises, saw the governor emphasizing the government’s commitment to easing the burden of rising food costs.
Governor Aliyu revealed that the state government approved a 55% subsidy on the food items to make them affordable for the people.
“The sale will be accessible to everyone, regardless of political affiliation or social standing,” the governor stated.
He further detailed the pricing, noting that a 50kg bag of rice would be sold for ₦38,700, a 25kg bag for ₦19,350, and a 10kg bag for ₦7,740.
Additionally, arrangements have been made for smaller portions to be available for those unable to purchase larger quantities.
Governor Aliyu clarified that the state is not seeking to collect the proceeds from the sales.
Instead, a special account will be set up for the funds, which will be used to restock and sustain the initiative.
The state has already invested ₦14.488 billion into the project, securing 280 trailers of rice, with each ward across Sokoto entitled to one truckload, equating to 600 bags of rice.
The governor expressed gratitude to former governor Aliyu Wamakko, acknowledging his guidance and support as key to the initiative’s success.
He assured the public that strict measures are in place to ensure the initiative reaches its intended beneficiaries.
Chairman of the sales committee, Chiso Dattijo, confirmed that the distribution would follow due process and that the subsidized rice is now available for purchase at designated points across Sokoto’s 242 wards.
Professor Malami Maishanu, the project coordinator for Kware Local Government, also encouraged residents to take full advantage of the initiative, praising the state government for its focus on grassroots welfare.
