The sale of N40,000 per bag of rice initiated by the federal government has commenced in Sokoto State. The distribution is to be handled by a special committee set up by Governor Ahmed Aliyu. The governor, however, said the effort was solely that of his administration. He had charged members of the committee to oversee the sales along with other essential commodities at subsidised rates. The governor said th move was to alleviate the economic hardship currently facing residents.
Governor Aliyu while speaking during the inauguration said the initiative is to ensure that the rice and other essential commodities reach the intended beneficiaries without bias, whether based on tribe, religion, or political affiliation.
He said “The state government, recognising the economic challenges experienced across the country, has purchased N14 billion worth of rice to be sold at a subsidised price of N40,000 per 50kg bag. My administration is deeply troubled by the current economic hardship experienced by the people, especially in Sokoto State. I will do everything within my power to ensure the welfare of the people by providing essential commodities to cushion the impact of the harsh economic environment.”
“This is a historic and much-needed intervention, aimed at providing rice to the people of Sokoto State at a subsidized rate of N40,000 per 50kg bag.”
“This initiative was made possible through the state’s financial commitment, and it is aimed at ensuring that our people do not go to bed hungry,” Aliyu added
He said that the injection of subsidised rice into the market would help lower the prices of other essential commodities as well.
Alhaji Chuso Abdullahi Dattijo, chairman of the committee, in his opening remarks, assured the governor that the committee would work diligently to achieve the programme’s objectives.
He said “We are committed to ensuring that middlemen do not interfere in the sale of commodities meant for the less privileged and vulnerable members of society.”
