The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in partnership with the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises–Niger Delta (LIFE-ND), has stepped up efforts to boost agricultural development and rural livelihoods across the Niger Delta region.
As part of its oversight responsibilities, officials of the NDDC and LIFE-ND recently inspected agricultural incubation centres in Rivers, Imo, and Akwa Ibom states to assess the level of implementation and impact of the programme in host communities.
Read also: NDDC Pledges Rapid Rural Development in Niger Delta
The inspection exercise was disclosed in a statement issued in Port Harcourt by the NDDC Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama.
Speaking during a visit to Megalakes Farms in Ogu, Rivers State, the Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr Winifred Madume, said the inspection was aimed at ensuring the programme remained aligned with its objectives. She noted that the NDDC’s commitment to its counterpart funding obligations reflects its resolve to drive rural economic transformation in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Dr Madume explained that the exercise provided an opportunity to interact directly with incubatees from different batches, identify challenges, and make improvements where necessary. She added that the LIFE-ND initiative is a collaborative programme involving the NDDC, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Federal Government, and participating state governments.
Also speaking, the Special Assistant on Agriculture to the NDDC Managing Director, Mr Abi Morris, expressed satisfaction with the enthusiasm and progress of young agripreneurs undergoing incubation or running their own enterprises. He described the programme as a practical approach to empowering youths, unlocking livelihoods, and reshaping mindsets.
Beneficiaries across the states commended the initiative for equipping them with practical skills, funding, and market access in areas such as fish farming, processing, and garri production. They noted that the support received has enabled them to expand their businesses and contribute meaningfully to local economies.
The NDDC reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the LIFE-ND partnership as a key strategy for strengthening agriculture and promoting inclusive growth across the Niger Delta.
