Nigerians resort to 'discardable' rice as a means to sustain amidst high cost of living

In northern Nigeria, many people are turning to low-quality rice grains known as afafata due to the rising cost of living. Afafata grains were previously either rejected by millers or sold to farmers to feed their fish. These grains are extremely hard, making cooking and eating them a challenge. Rice mill worker Isah Hamisu explained that in the past, this type of rice was thrown away, but now it has become more popular due to its cheaper price. Despite being broken, dirty, and tough, afafata has become more attractive to poorer families who cannot afford regular rice. The increasing demand for afafata has driven up its price. Nigeria has been experiencing high inflation rates due to a range of factors, including the cancellation of the fuel subsidy and the devaluation of the currency. As a result, the cost of rice has increased significantly, making it unaffordable for many Nigerians. Some states have seen protests against the rising cost of living, with demonstrators demanding a solution to the problem. For some, the solution lies in afafata rice. Market sellers have noticed a surge in demand for this cheaper variety, although it is acknowledged that the taste is not as good. Despite the challenges associated with afafata rice, people feel they have no choice but to adapt and find ways to survive the rising cost of living. The government has distributed grains such as rice, millet, and maize in an attempt to lower prices and alleviate the impact of inflation. However, there is still criticism that the government is not doing enough to address the issue. The high price of rice is not a new problem in Nigeria, as previous attempts to ban rice imports and promote local production have not been successful in meeting demand.