The Federal Government has announced the distribution of an additional 10 trucks of 50kg rice to each state, to be sold at designated centers for N40,000 per bag. This measure aims to address poverty and the high cost of living.
Following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that the government is addressing most demands of the planned August 1 protest organizers. President Bola Tinubu, expressing solidarity with the youth, emphasized his administration’s commitment to addressing their grievances.
Idris said, “The position of the FEC is that most demands by the protesters are being addressed by the federal government. Therefore, there is no need for the protests as the government is responsive and listening.”
He added that the President has initiated measures to ensure food availability, including the distribution of rice at subsidized prices. Ten trucks of rice have been distributed to each state, with the rice being sold at 50% of its cost price.
The government is also investing in agriculture to ensure food prices decrease, with expectations that ongoing projects will reduce food costs. Additionally, the federal government has started disbursing student loans, with provisions for over two million students.
Efforts are being made to provide employment for about three million youths through the MTT program. The government is also advancing its CNG initiative to reduce transportation costs, which is expected to save individuals 60% on fuel expenses.
Idris concluded by appealing to potential protesters to reconsider, citing the risk of protests being hijacked and turning violent. He emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of Nigerians across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, education, and employment, urging that the planned protest be shelved.
