In an unexpected move, the Federal Government has canceled its planned distribution of subsidized rice to civil servants, a decision that has left many workers questioning the future of the initiative. This cancellation was confirmed in a new internal circular from the Ministry of Special Duty and Inter-Governmental Affairs, which was obtained by our correspondent on Thursday in Abuja.
The new directive, dated August 2, 2024, and signed by the ministry’s Director of Human Resources, Aderonke Jaiyesimi, did not specify whether the program is permanently canceled or merely suspended. The document simply stated that the previous circular inviting civil servants to apply for the subsidized rice had been withdrawn, with more information to follow.
Uncertainty Looms Over Government Initiative
The abrupt cancellation has created uncertainty among civil servants who were eager to benefit from the scheme, which offered 50 kg bags of rice at a subsidized rate of N40,000. The initial memo instructed interested employees to complete an online application form, which was to be submitted to the director of human resources for approval. The distribution and payment process was set to be overseen by designated offices, with the Joint Union Council chairman acting as an observer to ensure transparency.
The Federal Government had recently announced this initiative as part of a broader effort by the Tinubu administration to alleviate the rising cost of living in Nigeria. The program was supposed to ease the financial burden on civil servants by offering rice at a price significantly lower than market rates, providing some relief amidst economic challenges.
Awaiting Further Details
Despite the withdrawal, the Ministry of Special Duty and Inter-Governmental Affairs has assured civil servants that more details will be provided in due course. However, the lack of a clear explanation for the suspension or cancellation has left many workers in limbo, uncertain about whether they will ever see the promised relief.
This development comes as Nigeria grapples with rising inflation and a challenging economic environment, which has made essential commodities like rice increasingly expensive. The government’s decision to halt this program, even temporarily, could fuel further discontent among civil servants and the general public.
As of now, civil servants and the public are left waiting for the next steps, hoping that the government will clarify its intentions and possibly reinstate the scheme. The Federal Government’s silence on the matter adds to the growing list of challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians in their daily struggle to make ends meet.
Source: Punch
