By 
Potential buyers of a 50kg bag of rice at the subsidised price of N40,000 will need to present their National Identification Number (NIN) before making a purchase, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, revealed to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). This move aligns with the government’s increasing emphasis on using digital identity for delivering services and products to citizens.
RELATED: NCC achieves 96% compliance in SIM-NIN linkage ahead of September 2024 deadline
The sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice at subsidised rates has commenced nationwide, with the government verifying buyers through their NIN to ensure transparency and prevent fraud. This initiative is designed to provide relief amid current economic challenges and to ensure that each person is limited to one 50kg bag.
Kyari explained, “Prospective buyers will be verified using identification mediums such as NIN and phone numbers to prevent multiple purchases by fraudulent individuals.”
He added that civil servants could also access the grains using their Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). Payment will be made electronically, with receipts issued upon completion.
Digital verification extends to other services
In addition to the rice subsidy, the government is offering a N50,000 grant, requiring applicants to provide their NIN and Bank Verification Number (BVN). The shift toward digital verification extends to other services as well, as phone users must link their SIM cards to their NIN by September 14 or risk disconnection from the national network.
With over 109 million NIN enrollments and 62.7 million BVN registrations, the government hopes these measures will enhance service delivery and curb criminal activities.
