Egoras Launches Discounted Rice Initiative to Support Vulnerable Nigerian Families

In a bid to ease the burden of soaring food prices, Nigerian tech startup Egoras has unveiled a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at providing heavily discounted rice to low-income families across select cities.

Launched over the weekend, the initiative offers 50kg bags of rice for N45,000—more than 50% below the current market price of N110,000. The subsidized rice is currently available in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.

Egoras CEO, Ugoji Harry, described the program as a direct response to the economic hardship facing many households. “The current economic situation has placed an enormous financial strain on Nigerian families. By offering rice at a significantly reduced price, we aim to provide relief and support to those who need it most,” he said in a statement on Saturday.

The initiative is facilitated through Egoras’ Telegram mini app, Egomartbot, enabling customers to place orders conveniently online.

With food inflation reportedly surpassing 30%, according to the National Bureau of Statistics, staple foods like rice have become increasingly inaccessible for many Nigerians. Egoras’ intervention seeks to narrow the gap between food supply and affordability.

To curb misuse of the initiative by profiteers, Egoras has implemented a strict one-bag-per-customer policy, enforced at all distribution centers. “This is not an opportunity for resellers,” Harry emphasized. “Our priority is to reach as many families as possible, not to fuel secondary markets.”

The company also highlighted the broader implications of rising food costs and economic instability. “While this program alone won’t solve food insecurity in Nigeria, we hope it provides meaningful support to struggling families,” Harry added. “Each bag sold at this reduced price helps a family make it through another day.”

Egoras' discounted rice initiative underscores the growing role of private sector innovation in addressing social challenges amid Nigeria’s economic headwinds.