The sale of the subsidized rice is being coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the Federal Civil Service Commission. To purchase the rice, public servants are required to present their NIN slip and a valid staff identity card at designated sales centers across the country.
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Mohammad Abubakar, explained that the initiative is part of the federal government’s efforts to mitigate the effects of the current economic challenges on Nigerians.
“The subsidized rice is aimed at reducing the financial burden on public servants and Nigerians in general, who are struggling to make ends meet due to the prevailing economic conditions,” Abubakar said.
The sales centers have been set up in various locations, including Abuja, Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt, to ensure easy access to the subsidized rice.
The government has also warned against racketeering and hoarding, stating that anyone caught engaging in such activities would be prosecuted.
The initiative has been commended by many Nigerians, who see it as a step in the right direction towards addressing the country’s food security challenges.
However, some have raised concerns about the requirement for NIN, citing concerns about privacy and the potential for fraud.
The government has assured that the NIN requirement is necessary to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution process.
