By ABIODUN LAWAL

The Federal Government on Thursday in Abeokuta began the sale of rice at a subsidised rate in Ogun.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, while speaking during a ceremony to signify the commencement, said it was “one of the numerous programmes initiated to bring succour and relief to Nigerians”.

Kyari, who was represented by Mrs Toyin Ayo-Ajayi, the ministry’s State Director, explained that the distribution was being monitored by several Federal Government agencies to ensure transparency, fairness and adequate security.

The Minister stated that government had put measures in place to ensure that the rice got to the intended beneficiaries.

He said all that was needed was an individual’s National Identification Number (NIN) and Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card to buy a 50kg rice at N40,000.

“However, I want to specifically applaud Gov. Dapo Abiodun for his commitment to the welfare of the citizens of the state.

“Ogun is one of the first set of states in Nigeria to enjoy the benefit and this can be attributed to the governor’s tenacity and visionary leadership.

“Ogun has one of the most organised templates ensuring that this gets to the three Senatorial districts of the state and to all at the grassroots,” he said.

Kyari urged citizens of the state to support government to make sure that all the efforts by different levels of government were appreciated.

In his address, Gov. Abiodun noted that President Bola Tinubu’s initiative testified to his commitment to ensuring he tackled the issue of food inflation and also improve the people’s livelihood.

He expressed his appreciation of the President for his unwavering dedication to supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring food security for citizens.

“This is especially in the light of the present economic realities facing the nation.

“Government has shown responsiveness, thoughtfulness.

“This is appreciated and welcomed, particularly following the removal of petroleum subsidy, as this will go a long way in cushioning the impact of the subsidy removal,” the governor said. (NAN)