The Niger Delta Development Commission and the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises, Niger Delta, have intensified efforts to boost agricultural transformation in the Niger Delta region.

NDDC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, said in a statement that the two organisations recently inspected incubation centres in Akwa Ibom, Imo, and Rivers states to assess the performance of their agricultural program.

The Director of Agriculture and Fisheries at NDDC, Dr Winifred Madume, led the inspection team, which aimed to evaluate the implementation of the programme and identify areas for improvement.

She emphasised that the commission is committed to meeting its counterpart funding and rural economic transformation in line with national agricultural goals.

The LIFE-ND programme is a collaborative initiative of NDDC, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the Federal Government, and participating states. It focuses on empowering rural youth and women in agriculture, particularly in poultry and aquaculture value chains.

The inspection team expressed satisfaction with the implementation status of the program and the enthusiasm of the young agripreneurs undergoing incubation. The Special Assistant to the NDDC Managing Director, Mr Abi Morris, noted that the program is a clear example of development in action, equipping youth with the tools to succeed.

Beneficiaries of the programme have commended NDDC for the initiative, saying it has equipped them with the necessary knowledge and funding to start their own agro-businesses. The programme has also been praised for enhancing food security in the Niger Delta region.

The NDDC’s commitment to agricultural development in the region is evident in its investment in rural areas. The commission’s efforts aim to unlock livelihoods and reshape mindsets, ultimately contributing to the region’s economic growth and development.