The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises, Niger Delta (LIFE-ND), are intensifying their efforts to transform agriculture in the region, particularly in rural communities.
During an inspection of agricultural incubation centers in Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Imo states, officials from NDDC and LIFE-ND assessed the progress of the ongoing initiative.
The visits were designed to evaluate the impact of the program and identify areas for improvement in empowering rural communities through agriculture.
In Rivers State, officials visited Samwart Farms in Opobo. Dr. Winifred Madume, the Director of Agriculture and Fisheries at NDDC, led the inspection.
She emphasized the importance of the oversight process, which allows the commission to assess how well the agricultural programme is being implemented.
Dr. Madume reaffirmed that the NDDC is fully committed to fulfilling its funding obligations to drive economic growth in rural areas. “This visit serves as an opportunity to ensure that the program’s objectives are being met and to engage with the young farmers involved.
“The goal is to empower youth and women in agriculture, especially in poultry and aquaculture. Our focus remains on ensuring that these rural communities benefit from sustainable agricultural practices.”
The LIFE-ND initiative is a joint project between the NDDC, the Federal Government, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and state governments. It aims to uplift rural livelihoods by providing critical support in agriculture.
Throughout the three-day inspection, the team visited various incubation sites across the region, including those in Delta, Imo, and Akwa Ibom states. According to Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Special Assistant to the NDDC Managing Director, the project is showing promising results. “We are pleased with the progress,” he said. “The enthusiasm from young agripreneurs is inspiring, and we see clear evidence of growth beyond mere training, as this programme is reshaping mindsets and creating real business opportunities.”
In Akwa Ibom, Mr. Chikezie Munachimso, Assistant Director of Agriculture and Fisheries at NDDC, was equally impressed with the selection process for incubators.
“The centers are well-equipped to support the incubatees. Many of them have the capacity to accommodate more participants, given the right extensions,” he noted.
Meanwhile, incubatee Atonye Ogolo from Rivers State expressed his gratitude for the program’s role in his agricultural journey.
“The support I’ve received from the NDDC has been invaluable,” he said. “With the knowledge and capital I’ve gained, I’m now ready to launch my own agricultural business.”
In Imo State, local incubatee Mrs. Unanka Jovita praised the programme for the positive impact it has had on her farm.
“This initiative has provided me with the necessary tools to expand my agribusiness,” she said during a visit to Sirkilo Memorial Farms in Nguru Umuaro, Ngor-Okpala LGA.
In his remarks, Dr. Tonye Frank-Oputu, Director II of Agriculture and Fisheries at NDDC, reiterated the importance of the programme during a visit to Imo State. “This initiative is crucial for securing the future of agriculture in the region,” he stated.
