Niger Delta agriculture boost receives momentum as NDDC and LIFE-ND inspect rural incubation centres to assess impact and support local agripreneurs

Niger Delta agriculture boost gained renewed momentum this week as the Niger Delta Development Commission and the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises, Niger Delta, carried out joint inspections of rural incubation centres across the region.

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The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to transform the agricultural sector and empower youth and women in rural communities.

The NDDC, in partnership with the Federal Government, the International Fund for Agricultural Development and state governments, is driving the LIFE-ND programme to enhance food security, promote agribusiness, and support local economies.

A three-day inspection saw officials visit centres in Rivers, Imo, Delta and Akwa Ibom States.

At Samwart Farms in Opobo, Rivers State, the Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr Winifred Madume, highlighted the Commission’s commitment to fulfilling its counterpart funding and improving economic conditions in line with national agricultural targets.

She noted, “We have come here on an oversight function to ensure that the objectives of this programme are being carried out as agreed. This inspection is ongoing in states funded by the NDDC.”

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the NDDC Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, the team assessed project delivery and interacted with young incubatees benefitting from the programme’s resources and technical support.

Mr Abi Morris, Special Assistant to the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, expressed satisfaction with the programme’s progress during an inspection of a training centre in Akabuka, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA.

“This programme is a clear example of development in action. It goes beyond training to unlocking livelihoods and reshaping mindsets. The Commission will continue to support initiatives that equip our youth with the tools to succeed,” he said.

The Niger Delta agriculture boost was also celebrated by beneficiaries. Atonye Ogolo, an incubatee in Rivers State, said the training and funding had enabled him to launch his own agro-business.

In Imo State, Mrs Unanka Jovita, based at Sirkilo Memorial Farms in Ngor-Okpala LGA, described the LIFE-ND programme as transformative, significantly enhancing her agribusiness.

Tonye Frank-Oputu, Director II of Agriculture and Fisheries, reiterated the programme’s long-term impact.

“This initiative is commendable as it ensures food security in the Niger Delta. This is why the NDDC is investing in the rural areas,” he said during the Imo leg of the inspection.

In Akwa Ibom, Assistant Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr Chikezie Munachimso, praised the transparency and effectiveness of the selection process for incubation centres.

“From interactions with incubators and incubatees, we can tell that the selection process was genuine. Most incubators have the capacity and facilities to absorb more incubatees if extension is given,” he observed.

At Timma Fish and Agro Services in Ikot Akpa Ekop, Mpkat Enin LGA, centre head Dr Okoko Atim expressed appreciation to the NDDC for supporting rural agripreneurship.

Mr Udofia Samuel, an incubatee at the same centre, was grateful for the opportunity.

“This training has given me the avenue to learn about fish production, processing and marketing. I also thank my incubator for the knowledge acquired,” he said.

The Niger Delta agriculture boost through LIFE-ND marks a significant investment in sustainable development.

It seeks to elevate rural livelihoods and encourage more youth to embrace agriculture as a viable path to economic independence.

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The NDDC has assured that it will continue to monitor the programme to ensure that the intended benefits reach every community in the region.