On January 30, 2024, here on NL, I wrote about the effect of fuel subsidy removal on the price of food and proposed what I believe our government should do in response. You can read more about it here:

It is commendable to see that the Nigeria Customs, an agency under the federal government, is selling some seized rice at a subsidized price to citizens with their National Identification Number (NIN), ensuring that each person can only purchase one bag. I encourage the federal, state, and local governments to adopt this method for distributing palliatives going forward. This approach can be extended to other staple foods such as beans, garri, semovita, etc.

With proper monitoring, such as digitizing the distribution process, targeted assistance can reach those in need. I think wealthier individuals who can afford to purchase food at market prices are unlikely to join the queue, ensuring that the assistance goes to the intended beneficiaries.

Each local government could establish around 10-20 distribution centers where people can access subsidized food, with each NIN holder eligible for this assistance once per month.

Other funds should be allocated to infrastructure development, and the government should refrain from propagandizing.

If we are prepared to take action, Nigeria will be great!

What do you think?

Lukgaf