Families in Ondo State are set to get some relief from rising food costs as the state government begins the sale of whole frozen chickens at a subsidised price of ₦5,000 per bird.

The initiative, implemented through the Ondo State Agribusiness Empowerment Centre (OSAEC) is aimed at improving access to affordable protein for households struggling with the rising cost of living.

Each chicken weighs between 1.3kg and 1.6kg and is sold at a fixed price of ₦5,000 significantly below prevailing market rates, where frozen chicken reportedly goes for between ₦6,500 and ₦7,000 per kilogram in many markets.

Speaking on the initiative, OSAEC Chairman, Rotimi Akinsola, said the programme was being carried out as part of efforts to reduce the financial pressure on residents.

“Families are feeling the pressure of rising food prices. We want every household in Ondo State to be able to afford quality protein, so we are selling full chickens at a subsidised rate of ₦5,000,” Akinsola said.

He explained that the intervention aligns with the government’s mandate to promote food security, strengthen agribusiness development and improve access to affordable food across the state.

According to him, the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to practical measures that address the rising cost of living and help residents meet their basic food needs.

Akinsola urged residents to take advantage of the subsidised sale, while also commending Governor Aiyedatiwa for supporting programmes aimed at improving food affordability and public welfare.