President Bola Tinubu has provided an explanation for the delay in the free distribution of 42,000 metric tonnes of grains aimed at addressing food insecurity in Nigeria. The delay, which has lasted almost three weeks, was attributed to the ongoing bagging process of the grains in seven strategic locations across the country.
The announcement of the free distribution of millet, maize, and other food commodities was initially made by the Minister of Agriculture on February 8 as a measure to alleviate the hardship faced by vulnerable Nigerians. However, there has been no distribution yet, causing concern amidst the rising cost of food in the country.
Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that the bagging process, handled by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), is nearing completion. He assured Nigerians that the grains would soon be delivered to those in need.
Onanuga also revealed that in addition to the 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities, the federal government would provide 60,000 metric tonnes of rice to further support the vulnerable population. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on commodity prices across major grain markets in the country.
