IFAD LIFE-ND PROJECT ONBOARDS 350 INCUBATES, 14 INCUBATORS IN RIVERS WITH NDDC’S FUNDING

 

L-R: NDDC Director Director Dr/Mrs Winifred Madume with National Project Coordinator Engr/Dr Abiodun Sanni

By Dr Helen Chimezie 

The International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD), Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises-Niger Delta project, has on Wednesday February 5, 2025, onboarded 350 incubatees and 14 incubators in the first batch of beneficiaries from Rivers State LIFE-ND project.

The project which is co-financed by the IFAD, the Federal Government of Nigeria, The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and the Rivers State Government is aimed at building the capacity of agripreneurs, enhancing incubatees’ income and ensuring food security in Rivers State and the Niger Delta States where the programme is being implemented.

Speaking at the orientation meeting, the National Project Coordinator of LIFE -ND, Dr. Abiodun Sanni, explained that the initiative underscores the collective commitment of the funders to ensure food security in Nigeria, and transform the Niger Delta rural economy through agribusiness.

He noted that the training is a crucial step towards equipping youths, women-headed households, and persons with disabilities with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to thrive in the agricultural sector.

“The LIFE-ND project is more than just providing resources; it is about empowering our youth to take ownership of their future, foster community development, and create lasting impact in their respective regions,” he said; while also commending the NDDC for funding the project in Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Imo States, as well as the Governor of Rivers State and all those who have worked tirelessly to bringing the initiative to life.

On his part, the NDDC boss who was represented by the commission’s Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr Winifred Madume, charged the beneficiaries to take up the challenge as future agribusiness entrepreneurs.

Dr Madume lauded the efforts of the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for his unwavering commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region, particularly to the women and youth.

She also congratulated the beneficiaries for being among the fortunate few who have been selected as the first batch of successful LIFE-ND incubatees in Rivers State.

“Out of over 1,000 applicants, only 350 individuals and 14 incubators have met the stringent criteria to participate in this program. You should consider yourselves privileged to be part of this prestigious initiative.

 

        Aerial view of participants

“You may have heard success stories from beneficiaries in neighbouring Niger Delta states, where this project has brought about transformative change. Our staff remain closely engaged with beneficiaries to monitor their progress, offering guidance and addressing challenges along the way. Your success here is not only a personal achievement but a testament to your commitment and potential as future agribusiness entrepreneurs within your communities.

“For too long, the youth of the Niger Delta have been misrepresented in the media as militants engaged in destructive activities. However. I firmly believe that, with the right opportunities, our youth are industrious, innovative, and eager to engage in productive ventures This project is your opportunity to challenge that stereotype and show the world that the youth of the Niger Delta are hard-working, entrepreneurial, and determined to succeed. It is also worth noting that all project staff come from the Niger Delta region, which means they have a deep personal investment in your success,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, the Rivers State Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Maurice Ogolo, who represented the Rivers State Commissioner for Agriculture, while flagging-off the training, expressed delight that Port Harcourt was chosen as the project headquarters in the region.

He commended the funders of the LIFE-ND project, while highlighting some of the achievements of the Sim Fubara led administration in the agricultural sector.

He further advised the beneficiaries to take their training seriously, as it will positively impact communities in Rivers State. “See yourselves as an ambassador for being here today”, he added.

On a similar note, the Rivers State Project Coordinator of LIFE -ND, Mr. Loveday Itatat urged all beneficiaries to recognize the training opportunity as a privilege granted by the FGN, NDDC, IFAD, and the Rivers State Government. “It is a call to action that requires your dedication, commitment, and passion for the project’s success in Rivers State.

“We stand at a historic juncture, and failure is not an option, especially considering that the regional office of the project is situated here in Port Harcourt. I encourage all beneficiaries to maximize this golden opportunity to achieve the project’s goals and objectives in the state.

“The National and State Project Coordinating Offices of LIFE-ND are committed to supporting beneficiaries by providing required extension services to sustain their interest and motivation. Measures will be put in place to ensure timely payment of allowances and the provision of necessary resources to facilitate your success,” he stated.

He also pointed out that prior to the orientation training, a comprehensive sensitization exercise on the LIFE-ND project was conducted last year in 20 communities across five Local Government Areas in Rivers State.

For Clara Uranta an incubator with over 30 years of experience on fish value chain, the project will encourage youths to come into the agribusiness, instead of roaming the streets.

 

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