Federal Government Begins Rice Selling Amidst Upcoming Protests for N40,000 per 50kg
The Federal Government announced on Monday that it has commenced the distribution of an additional 10 trucks of 50kg rice to each state across Nigeria. The rice will be sold at designated centers for N40,000 per bag. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address rising poverty and the cost of living.
The announcement comes as the Federal Executive Council (FEC) argues that many of the demands from the planned August 1 nationwide protest are already being met. President Bola Tinubu, according to his spokesperson, is addressing the youth’s grievances by implementing measures to alleviate their concerns.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, briefed the media following a Council meeting. He emphasized that the FEC believes most of the protesters’ demands are being addressed by the government. “The government is committed to serving the people, not dominating them,” Idris stated. He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts, such as distributing rice at subsidized rates and implementing agricultural investments to reduce food prices.
Idris also mentioned the recent disbursement of student loans aimed at supporting over two million students, with around 110,000 applications received to date. Additionally, the government is working to create employment opportunities through various programs and is advancing efforts to reduce transportation costs via the CNG initiative.
The government appeals to those planning protests to reconsider, citing concerns that such demonstrations could be hijacked and potentially lead to violence. While acknowledging the right to peaceful protest, Idris urged the public to recognize the government’s efforts to address their issues and avoid disrupting the nation’s stability.
