The Federal Government, on Thursday, October 10, 2024, commenced the sale of rice at a subsidised rate in Ogun State.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, while speaking during a ceremony to signify the commencement in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, said it was “one of the numerous programmes initiated to bring succour and relief to Nigerians”.

Kyari, who was represented by the ministry’s State Director, Toyin Ayo-Ajayi, said the distribution of the subsidised rice was being monitored by several federal government agencies to ensure transparency, fairness, and adequate security.

The minister stated that the government had put measures in place to ensure that the rice got to the intended beneficiaries.

He said all that was needed was an individual’s National Identification Number (NIN) and Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card to buy 50kg rice at N40,000.

Kyari said: “However, I want to specifically applaud Governor Dapo Abiodun for his commitment to the welfare of the citizens of the state.

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“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 to all at the grassroots.”

Kyari urged the people of Ogun State to support government to make sure that all the efforts by different levels of government were appreciated.

Speaking, Abiodun noted that President Bola Tinubu’s initiative testified to his commitment to ensuring he tackled food inflation and also improved the people’s livelihood.

The governor also expressed his appreciation to the president for his dedication to supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring food security for citizens.

He said: “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 Star