Amid growing hunger in Nigeria, the Federal Government has announced the required documentation for citizens to access subsidised rice, priced at ₦40,000 for a 50kg bag of milled rice.

To qualify, citizens must present their National Identification Number (NIN), a valid ID card, and an ATM card for registration and payment. After these steps, beneficiaries must undergo a verification process by government officials before receiving their rice.

In Abuja, individuals can present the necessary documents at the Nigeria Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC). Once registered and payment is made, they can proceed to collect their rice at the Central Business Area, beside the First Bank branch near NNPC Towers.

Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, acknowledged the potential difficulties in distributing this critical staple during challenging times.

He said, “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.”

Kyari stressed the government’s efforts to prevent fraud, noting that distribution is limited to one bag of rice per person. Verification will be conducted using identification methods such as NIN and phone numbers.

He expressed confidence that the injection of 30,000 metric tons of rice (equivalent to 1,000 trucks) into the market will help reduce rice prices and have a positive impact on other essential food items.

The subsidised rice will be distributed nationwide, ensuring equal access for all citizens, provided they have the required documents.