The Federal Government announced on Monday that it has commenced the distribution of 10 additional trucks of 50kg rice to each state, selling at designated centers for N40,000 per bag.

This development comes as the Federal Executive Council (FEC) insists that there is no need for the planned August 1 national protest, arguing that most of the organizers’ demands are already being addressed.

President Bola Tinubu, ahead of the protest, asserted that he is addressing the youth’s grievances on their behalf.

During a briefing at the end of the Council meeting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, explained that the rice distribution aims to combat poverty and the high cost of living.

“The FEC believes most of the protesters’ demands are being addressed by the government, hence there is no need for the protest,” Idris stated. “The President is already protesting on their behalf by implementing measures to ensure food availability.”

He highlighted that 20 trucks of rice had previously been distributed to state governors for those in need, and rice is now being sold at about 50% of its cost, N40,000 per bag.

“This rice is available at various centers across all states. Ten trucks have been allocated to each state initially, and more interventions are planned,” he added.

The Minister emphasized that this is an interim measure as investments in the agricultural sector continue. The rainy season and irrigation activities are expected to bring down food prices further.

He also pointed to other government initiatives addressing youth concerns, such as the recent disbursement of student loans, with provisions for over two million students.

“The President’s goal is to ensure no student is left out due to financial constraints,” Idris said. “Additionally, efforts are underway to employ about three million young people through the MTT program.”

Regarding transportation, the Minister mentioned the anticipated reduction in costs through the federal government’s CNG initiative, with commercial buses being prioritized.

Idris appealed to those planning the protest to reconsider, warning that protests could be hijacked by unscrupulous elements and turn violent, which would be detrimental to Nigeria.

“While the right to peaceful protest is respected, the government urges caution and patience as efforts are made to meet the needs of Nigerians in various sectors,” he concluded. “There is no need for this protest.”