FG Rolls Out Additional 10 Trucks of Affordable Rice to States Across the Federation

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

As tension builds up ahead of the planned hunger protests in Nigeria, the Federal Government has started distribution of additional 10 trucks of 50kg rice to each state, to be sold at a reduced price of N40,000, as the FEC insists that most protesters' demands are being met.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has stated that there is no need for the protest, as most of the organizers' demands are already being addressed. 

Ahead of the national protest scheduled for August 1,President Bola Tinubu has said he is addressing the grievances of the youth, hence the hynger protests are uncalled for.

OPEN TELEVISION Naija reports that during a briefing to State House correspondents at the end of the Council meeting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed that the Government has implemented measures such as distributing 10 trucks of rice to each state to combat poverty and the high cost of living. 

Idris said, "The position of the FEC is that most of the demands made by the protesters are actually being addressed by the Federal Government. Therefore, it is the view of the Government that there is no need for the protests because most of the issues raised by the protesters are already being addressed. This is a listening Government."

"The President has listened to the voices of those planning this protest, and the message is that there is no need for it. Indeed, the President is already protesting on their behalf by doing the things they want the Government to do, such as ensuring food availability," Idris added.

In his words; "At the last Council meeting, we announced that 20 trucks of rice had been given to state Governors for distribution to those most in need, particularly the poorest in society. In addition, rice is being sold at about 50% of its cost, with a bag priced at N40,000.'

"This rice has been distributed to various centers across all states, where it is being sold for N40,000 per bag. In the first instance, about 10 trucks have been made available to each state. While some comments suggest this is not enough, the Government acknowledges that these supplies are just the beginning. More interventions are being planned."

Idris further, "This is an interim measure, with significant investment going into the agricultural sector. With the rainy season here, we expect food prices to decrease as investments are made not only in traditional agricultural produce but also in irrigation activities across many states."

"The President and the Federal Executive Council believe that some of the youth's demands are already being addressed. For example, the Federal Government has recently begun disbursing student loans, with provisions for over two million students," the Minister added.

"Only about 110,000 applications for student loans have been received so far, but more are expected. There is adequate provision for all qualified applicants who meet the conditions," he said. 

The President aims to ensure that no student admitted to any of the nation’s tertiary institutions is left out due to financial constraints.

Additionally, as gathered by OPEN TELEVISION Naija, efforts are being made to employ about three million young people through the MTT program. For the general public, there will be cost reductions once the Federal Government's CNG initiative is fully implemented. Some of these buses and conversion kits have already been imported, and conversion centers are becoming active. 

"The Social Security system is being developed to ensure no one is left behind. Please, there is no need for this protest."

The Minister said, delays are due to necessary procurement processes and the need to place orders for these items. It is expected that the transition from fossil fuels to renewables will reduce transportation costs by over 60%. Individuals with cars are expected to spend about 60% less on transportation, saving money. Initially, the focus will be on commercial buses for mass transit to reduce fares for workers and commuters.

"In light of all the efforts the Government is making, we appeal once again to those planning to protest to reconsider. There is no need for it. While it is the democratic right of every Nigerian to engage in peaceful protests, the Government is not opposed to that. However, your right to protest ends where someone else’s rights begin," Idris urges youth.

Furthermore, OPEN TELEVISION Naija revealed that the Federal Government is working hard to meet the demands of Nigerians in various areas such as healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and ensuring that our youth can attend school and find employment. 

The Minister, Idris urge the protesters to reconsider protesting because it could be hijacked by unscrupulous elements and turn violent, which would not be beneficial for Nigeria. Although the organizers may have peaceful intentions, our history shows that protests can be hijacked and become violent.

In conclusion, the Federal Government is working hard to meet the demands of Nigerians in various areas such as healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and ensuring that our youth can attend school and find job employment.