Rice Subsidy: FG Gives Civil Servants 50kg for N40,000

FG Offers Civil Servants 50kg Rice for N40,000

Civil servants to get 50kg ricce for N40,000 according FG...

Federal Government offers subsidized 50kg bags of rice at N40,000, amid protests over hunger and economic hardship, as market prices soar to N90,000-N100,000.

The Federal Government has announced plans to sell 50kg bags of rice to its employees at a subsidized price of N40,000 each, aiming to alleviate the impact of the ongoing food crisis in the country.

In a letter issued by the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, signed by Director of Human Resources Jaiyesimi Abimbola, the government invited interested staff members to express their interest by completing a Google form on the OHCSF website. The form must be submitted to the Director of Human Resources for approval, with a limit of one bag per person.

“As part of the Federal Government's efforts to alleviate the current food crisis in the country and its effects on the general population, I am directed to inform you that 50kg bags of rice will be sold at a subsidised rate of N40,000 only per bag to interested public servants in Abuja,” the letter stated.

“For effective implementation, all interested staff are required to complete a Google form on the OHCSF website, print, and submit same to the Director, HR, for endorsement.

“Payment for and distribution of the rice will be coordinated by designated officials while the chairman, Joint Union Council of the Ministry is required to serve as an observer during the period of the exercise for the purpose of transparency.

“I am to add that each member of staff is only entitled to purchase one bag. Two or more staff may also jointly pay for a bag for sharing among themselves.

“Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of staff in your respective Departments/Units for information and guidance.”

The Federal Government has established rice purchase centers nationwide, offering 50kg bags at a subsidized price of N40,000, significantly lower than the prevailing market rate.

According to Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, this initiative is part of the President Bola Tinubu administration's efforts to improve the lives of citizens, demonstrating the government's commitment to alleviating the burden of high food costs.

Currently, a 50kg bag of parboiled rice costs between N90,000 and N100,000 in the open market, highlighting the significant price difference with the government's subsidized offer.

Nigerians have been taking to the streets since Thursday, protesting against the escalating hunger and economic hardship in the country, and urging the government to take concrete steps to address their plight.