The Federal Government has commenced the distribution of 42,000 metric tonnes of grains in some focal points of the state capitals nationwide.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari
The Minister of who made the disclosure on Tuesday when he met with the joint committe of the Senate and House of representatives on Agricultiral production services and rural development
Kyari hinted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved distribution of 42,000 metric tonnes of grains as one of the initiatives being implemented to cushion the effects of the hardships in Nigeria.
He stated that in order to mitigate the risk associated with food warehouse vandalisation nationwide, the Ministry is currently collaborating with the office of the National Security Adviser and other national security organisations.
“We have received directive and approval from Mr. President to distribute for immediate impact 42,000 metric tons of assorted grains free of charge to the Nigerian population. This was received in mid February, as we are speaking we have a record of the distribution being carried out, but I will want to plead with the honourable house and distinguished senators that some of the movements can’t be made public but a lot of states have started receiving their grains.
“We are distributing to State capitals in the first instance as you all are aware of the risk involved in the vandalisation of foodstuff so we are working with the office of the National Security Adviser and other national security agencies.
“Distribution has commenced however I will not want to comment on the security aspect of the distribution. I can assure you that we have started distributing in the northwestern states, and we are distributing out of seven points.
“We have been advised by the office of the National Security Adviser to remain silent on those locations and transit of those trucks to the individual to all states. The grains are to be distributed nationwide and free of charge and to vulnerable people” he said.
He promised to stabilise the market by releasing 58,500 metric tonnes of milled rice from large rice millers.
Shortly after the interactive session, Senator Mustapha expressed satisfaction with the steps being taken by the Federal Government.
“From our interactive session, we on the other side of the parliament are fully in the picture of what is happening, we are convinced that the steps being taken by the federal government are in the right direction. All we need is to fasttrack the distribution
“I think this collaborative approach by the grace of God, Nigerians will have a better feel of the government policy on food security,” he added.