The Federal Government has outlined the necessary documents for Nigerians to purchase a 50kg bag of milled rice at the subsidized price of N40,000, as part of its intervention to ease hunger during the ongoing economic challenges.
To qualify, citizens must provide their National Identification Number a valid ID card, and an ATM card for the registration and payment process.
Following registration, applicants must undergo an additional verification procedure overseen by government officials before the rice can be collected.
In Abuja, residents are required to submit their documents at the Nigeria Agricultural Insurance Corporation.
Once payment is confirmed, they can proceed to the Central Business District near the First Bank branch beside NNPC Towers to pick up their 50kg bag of rice.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, addressed the complexities of distributing this essential commodity at a time when many Nigerians are facing food insecurity.
“The Federal Government is aware of the potential challenges associated with the sales of an important staple such as rice, and has deployed a multi-disciplinary machinery of government to ensure the transparency, wider reach, and success of this exercise,” he said.
To curb fraud, Kyari stressed that only one bag of rice will be sold per individual. Verification will be carried out using identification methods, including the NIN and phone numbers.
He also noted that the government has instituted safeguards to ensure only eligible citizens benefit from the program.
The Minister expressed confidence that the infusion of 30,000 metric tons of rice—equivalent to 1,000 trucks each carrying 30 metric tons—into the market will lead to a significant reduction in the price of rice and related food products.
Distribution will occur across all states, ensuring equal access nationwide. However, beneficiaries must have the necessary documents ready before attempting to make a purchase, as the government is keen on ensuring a smooth and transparent process.
