The Federal Government on Thursday in Abeokuta began the sale of rice at a subsidized rate in Ogun.
Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, who spoke during a ceremony to signify the commencement, said it was “one of the numerous programmes initiated to bring succour and relief to Nigerians”.
Mrs Toyin Ayo-Ajayi, the ministry’s State Director , who represented the minister explained that the distribution was being monitored by several Federal Government agencies in order to ensure transparency, fairness and adequate security.
The Minister also stated that the government had put different means in place to ensure that the rice get to the intended beneficiaries.
According to the minister, all that was needed was an individual’s National Identification Number (NIN) and Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card to buy the 50kg of rice at N40,000.
“However, I want to specifically applaud Gov. Dapo Abiodun for his commitment to the welfare of the citizens of the state.
“Ogun is one of the first set of states in Nigeria to enjoy the benefit and this can be attributed to the governor’s tenacity and visionary leadership.
“Ogun has one of the most organised templates ensuring that this gets to the three Senatorial districts of the state and all at the grassroots,” he said.
Kyari then encouraged citizens of the state to support the government to make sure that all the efforts by different levels of government were appreciated.
Gov. Abiodun, in his address, pointed out that President Bola Tinubu’s initiative attest to his commitment to ensuring he solve the issue of food inflation and also improved the people’s livelihood.
Abiodun expressed his appreciation of the President for his firm dedication to supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring food security for citizens.
“This is especially in the light of the present economic realities facing the nation.
“Government has shown responsiveness, thoughtfulness.
“This is appreciated and welcomed, particularly following the removal of petroleum subsidy, as this will go a long way in cushioning the impact of the subsidy removal,” the governor said.
