On Monday, the Federal Government announced the establishment of centers nationwide where Nigerians can purchase a 50kg bag of rice for N40,000. This initiative was disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a briefing on the outcomes of the Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.
Idris highlighted that this initiative is part of various measures introduced by the Tinubu administration to improve the living conditions of citizens. He suggested that the planned nationwide protests starting August 1 are unnecessary, arguing that President Tinubu is effectively advocating for the people through these new measures.
The minister contended that many of the demands made by protest organizers are already being addressed by the government. Idris stated, “The Federal Executive Council believes that most of the demands by the protesters are being met by the government, making further protests unnecessary. This administration is responsive and listens to the concerns of its citizens. President Tinubu is acting on these concerns and has already taken steps that align with what the protesters are asking for.”
He detailed the recent actions taken by the government, including the distribution of 740 trucks of grains to various states and the availability of rice at a reduced price of N40,000 per 50kg bag at designated centers across the country. Idris noted, “At a recent Council meeting, we reported that 20 trucks were allocated to each state governor for distribution to those in need, particularly the most impoverished. Additionally, rice is now being sold at about 50 percent of its usual cost at these centers.”
Idris also mentioned that the government anticipates a reduction in food prices due to the rainy season and ongoing investments in agricultural production and irrigation across states.
The minister also referenced the student loan scheme and the forthcoming distribution of CNG kits as part of efforts to mitigate living costs. He attributed delays in the rollout of CNG buses to logistical challenges and the need to follow procurement processes, but he assured that the transition to renewable energy would significantly reduce transportation costs.
In a related development, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo lauded the administration’s achievements, emphasizing the removal of the fuel subsidy as a key move to address long-term issues in Nigeria’s energy sector. He highlighted new policies aimed at boosting local trade in crude oil and refined products, which he believes will attract investments, create jobs, and enhance energy independence.
Tunji-Ojo also noted the benefits of unifying exchange rates, including improved economic predictability, increased foreign direct investment, and support for local government autonomy, which contributes to grassroots development.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, following the signing of the minimum wage bill, cautioned against anarchy, asserting that the government cannot afford the cost of rebuilding damaged infrastructure. He warned that the right to protest should not be used as a pretext for violence or destabilization. Akpabio urged the Nigerian youth not to be misled by groups seeking to exploit the situation for political gain, emphasizing the need to invest resources in development rather than reconstruction.
