By Abdullahi Lukman
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has teamed up with the Federal Government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) on a new project aimed at developing 38,250 agripreneurs in the Niger Delta region.
The initiative, named the FGN/IFAD/NDDC Livelihood Project, seeks to enhance agricultural production, create jobs, and improve food security by empowering rural youth and women with sustainable agribusiness opportunities.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of NDDC, made the announcement during his keynote address at the first orientation training for the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday, February 5.
He was represented by Dr. Winifred Madume, the Commission’s Director of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Ogbuku explained that the LIFE-ND project targets income generation and job creation through seven key agricultural sectors: rice, cassava, plantain, oil palm, cocoa, poultry, and fishery, including aquaculture and artisanal fisheries.
In Rivers State, the focus will be on fishery, plantain, cassava, and poultry.
This initiative is funded through a loan from IFAD, with contributions from the NDDC and matching funds from state governments involved in the program.
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“This project aims to transform the rural economy of the Niger Delta, ensuring prosperity and equal opportunities for all,” Ogbuku stated.
He also emphasized that for too long, Niger Delta youth have been unfairly portrayed as militants engaged in destructive behavior.
The NDDC helmsman believes that with the right opportunities, they are hardworking and eager to succeed in productive ventures.
“This project is your chance to challenge that stereotype and demonstrate that the youth of the Niger Delta are entrepreneurial and committed to success,” he added.
Dr. Abiodun Sani, National Coordinator of the FGN/IFAD/NDDC Livelihood Project, expressed confidence that the project would lead to significant changes, particularly in rural areas.
He noted that it would stimulate local economies, create wealth, and generate both direct and indirect job opportunities over the next three years.
“We expect a major improvement in food security,” he said.
Victor Kii, the Rivers State Commissioner for Agriculture, represented by Permanent Secretary Morris Ogolo, praised the collaboration between the federal government, NDDC, and IFAD.
He also thanked Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his support of the state’s participation in the project. END
