Imo: NDDC, IFAD train and empower 386 farmers

From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri

In continuation of its Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises–Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project, 386 farmers, otherwise known as “incubatees,” were trained and empowered by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in collaboration with the Imo State government at the weekend in Owerri, the state capital.

The project is aimed at sustaining food security and raising young entrepreneurs, women, and the physically challenged, according to the National Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, Abiodun Sanni, who addressed the beneficiaries during a two-day workshop in Owerri.

He said, “Today, we gather to commence the orientation training for the first batch of beneficiaries from Imo State. This training is a crucial step toward equipping our youth, women-headed households, and persons with disabilities with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to thrive in the agricultural sector.

“Fostering youth inclusion in agriculture is vital for ensuring sustainable development, job creation, and food security in Nigeria. Through this training, we aim to build the capacity of young agripreneurs, enabling them to actively participate in the agricultural value chain, drive innovation, and contribute to the economic growth of rural communities.

“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.”

The State Coordinator of the project, Mrs Victoria Igboanugo, during her speech, thanked Governor Hope Uzodimma for the payment of the counterpart fund that facilitated it.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Cosmos Maduba, who represented the governor at the occasion, vowed the government’s consistency in supporting the project. He also noted that Governor Uzodimma has approved the counterpart fund to keep the project alive.

Earlier, the State Commissioner for NDDC, Kylian Uchegbu, commended the Managing Director of the commission, Samuel Ogboku, and Governor Uzodimma for their initiatives in investing in agriculture through the LIFE-ND project and not just the usual construction of roads and buildings.