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The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the planned nationwide hunger protests from August 1 to 10, 2024, are unnecessary, as measures are being taken to make food available at affordable prices.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed this message to State House correspondents following the Federal Executive Council meeting on Monday, chaired by President Bola Tinubu.
Idris highlighted that the government is already addressing the concerns of Nigerians by ensuring food availability.
He stated, “Many of the issues raised by those planning the protests are being tackled. Efforts are being made to make sure that food is accessible.”
He further announced that processed rice will be available in various centres across the country at a recommended retail price of N40,000 per 50kg bag.
“This is just the beginning. Other food items such as cowpeas, maize, and wheat are also being processed and will soon be available at reduced prices as a temporary measure,” Idris said.
The minister emphasized the government’s significant investment in the agricultural sector, which is expected to lower food prices further in the future. “There is substantial investment going into agriculture, and we believe that food prices will decrease as we move forward,” he added.
Addressing youth concerns, Idris mentioned that the student loan scheme ensures no young Nigerian will be deprived of education. Additionally, he noted that the full implementation of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) would resolve transportation issues.
The Federal Government remains committed to answering the demands of Nigerians and providing solutions to the current challenges, making the planned protests unnecessary.
