ASHENEWS reports that the Niger State Government says that arrangements are in place to commence the sale of grains to residents at a 50 per cent discount.
This, according to the Niger state governor, Mohammed Bago is aimed at cushioning the hardship faced by residents in the state.
Speaking to journalists in Minna on Friday, the Niger state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Binta Mamman said that an 11- Man committee has been formed to facilitate the exercise.
The committee comprises a Member from the State Assembly, a Commissioner, a Special Adviser, a Council Chairman, a Permanent Secretary, representatives of traditional rulers, organised labour, religious leaders, leaders of Councilors, and Security Agencies.
Some of the terms of reference of the Committee are to determine the point of sales, the quantity to be sold per household, and the date for the sales among other modalities.
The commissioner added that the Committee is also to coordinate the sale to ensure a smooth and peaceful process across the State.
The Commissioner said the terms of reference would be carried out in consideration of the peculiarities of each of the local government areas.
She said all Committee members are directed to move to their respective local government areas for necessary action.
The Commissioner further called on all residents of the state to remain calm while waiting for the announcement of the points of sale.
Recall that the Niger State Governor in a town hall meeting with Stakeholders in the State announced the release of 1,000 trucks of assorted grains for sale at a 50 per cent discount to residents of the State to cushion the soaring price of food items and economic hardship.
In another development, the state government has announced that every household will be eligible to purchase 10 measures of each of the assorted grains at a 50 per cent discount.
“This is in consideration of the less privileged who cannot afford to buy a bag at a time and to allow for wider coverage.
The Government also said the sales will be done in batches.
The grains include rice, beans, maize, sorghum and millet.
The State government assured the people of continuous updates on the sales of the grains to ensure transparency.
