The Federal Government has called for calm regarding the proposed nationwide protest, revealing measures to ease living conditions. 

According to Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government has created centres nationwide where Nigerians can buy a 50kg bag of rice for ₦40,000.

During a Federal Executive Council meeting led by President Bola Tinubu, Idris stated that the initiative is part of efforts to address citizens’ hardships. 

Idris said,

“For example, at the last Council meeting, we announced that 20 trucks had been given to each state governor for onward distribution to those who actually needed them, to the poorest of the poor in society.

“But the government did not stop. Rice is also being sold at about 50 per cent of its cost; a bag of rice is being sold as we speak. 

This rice has been taken to various centres across all the states of the federation and is being sold at N40,000. Centres have been created so that those who need this rice can go there and buy this rice at N40,000.”

He argued that the nationwide protests are unnecessary as the government is already addressing the demands. 

Idris highlighted recent government actions, including distributing 740 trucks of grains to states and selling rice at half its cost. 

Each state has received 10 trucks of rice, with plans for more interventions. Additionally, efforts are underway to reduce food prices and invest in agriculture.

Idris also mentioned the student loan scheme and expected distribution of CNG kits to reduce transportation costs, citing logistical delays for the rollout.

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