The Director of Human Resources of the Ministry, Jaiyesimi Abimbola, in the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs said on Monday that the Federal Government has concluded plans to sell a 50kg bag of rice at N40,000 to public servants with a view to alleviating the food crisis in the nation and its effects on Nigerians.
Africa Health Report AHR, recalls that last week, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, said the federal government had created centres across the country where Nigerians could purchase 50kg bags of rice for N40,000.
Idris said the initiative was one of several initiatives by the Tinubu administration to ease living conditions for citizens.
However, yesterday, the director disclosed the directive in a letter signed by him, saying that all interested staff members were to complete a Google form on the OHCSF website and submit it to the director of human resources for endorsement.
The letter further stated that payment for and the distribution of the rice would be coordinated by designated offices while the chairman, Joint Union Council of the ministry, would serve as an observer for transparency reasons in the course of the exercise.
“As part of the Federal Government’s efforts to alleviate the current food crisis in the country and its effects on the general population, I am directed to inform you that 50kg bags of rice will be sold at a subsidised rate of N40,000 only per bag to interested public servants in Abuja.
“For effective implementation, all interested staff are required to complete a Google form on the OHCSF website, https://www.ohcsf.gov.ng, print, and submit same to the Director, HR, for endorsement.
“Payment for and distribution of the rice will be coordinated by designated officials while the chairman, Joint Union Council of the Ministry is required to serve as an observer during the period of the exercise for the purpose of transparency.
“I am to add that each staff is only entitled to purchase one bag. Two or more staff may also jointly pay for a bag for sharing among themselves.
“Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of staff in your respective Departments/Units for information and guidance.”(With Agency Report)