NDDC and LIFE-ND inspect Niger Delta agricultural centres, empowering young agripreneurs and boosting rural livelihoods

Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in partnership with the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises–Niger Delta (LIFE-ND), has intensified efforts to advance agricultural development across the Niger Delta region.

Also read: Gov. Obaseki calls for NDDC’s restructuring

Officials from both organizations recently conducted inspections of agricultural incubation centres in Akwa Ibom, Imo, and Rivers States to assess the programme’s performance in rural communities.

In a statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, NDDC Director of Corporate Affairs, the inspections were described as part of the commission’s oversight responsibilities.

Speaking during the visit to Megalakes Farms in Ogu Town, Rivers State, Dr Winifred Madume, Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, explained that the exercise was aimed at ensuring the programme meets its objectives.

“This oversight ensures training is aligned with its mandate. The NDDC’s commitment to funding and rural economic transformation supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” she said.

The inspection also allowed officials to interact directly with incubatees and identify areas for improvement within the LIFE-ND programme, a collaborative initiative involving the NDDC, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the Federal Government, and participating state governments.

Mr Abi Morris, Special Assistant on Agriculture to the NDDC Managing Director, lauded the enthusiasm of young agripreneurs, noting that many have launched enterprises or are actively undergoing incubation.

“This programme goes beyond training; it unlocks livelihoods and reshapes mindsets. We continue to support initiatives that equip our youth with the skills and resources to succeed,” Morris said.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the programme. Miss Nzhu Salome of Sogho, Rivers State, highlighted how the initiative enabled her to establish a garri marketing business, while Ibigineh Doreen of Imo State credited the programme for boosting her fish farming venture. In Akwa Ibom, Dr Oretan Adebowale encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained to drive sustainable agriculture in their communities.

“The incubation model is efficient, and the progress of the beneficiaries confirms the programme’s impact,” he said.

Also read:Edo Approves Closed Training Camp Ahead of Niger Delta Games

The three-day oversight tour underscores the NDDC and LIFE-ND’s commitment to agricultural transformation, rural empowerment, and youth entrepreneurship in the Niger Delta.