NDDC to bridge rural-urban migration with agribusiness enterprises

The Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the Federal Government/IFAD Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise, LIFE-ND, is aimed at reducing rural- urban migration, decrease youth restiveness and provide sustainable alternatives to unwholesome activities that too often plague the Niger Delta region.

Dr Samuel Ogbuku, who spoke on Friday at the launch of the Federal Government/IFAD Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise, LIFE-ND in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, said about 38,000 persons across Akwa Ibom, Imo and Rivers states have been targeted to benefit from the project.

Ogbuku said the launch of Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise, LIFE-ND, in the three NDDC funded states of Akwa Ibom, Imo and Rivers State is a bold leap into the boundless world of agribusiness.

He said the project is not just ploughing through the fields of agribusiness but breaking new ground for cultivating opportunities for wealth and stability.

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Dr Samuel Ogbuku said the launch of the new project will usher in new possibilities, fertile soil for growth in areas that were once dry and barren for the region’s youth and women.

He said, “Together, we aim to reduce rural- urban migration, decrease youth restiveness and provide sustainable alternatives to unwholesome activities that too often plague our region.

“The NDDC proudly stands as a co-implementer of this initiative, alongside the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, with steadfast support of IFAD. Together, we aim to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope by addressing unemployment, reducing youth restlessness and fostering inclusion through profitable agribusiness ventures.

“The LIFE-ND project aims to transform the lives of over 38,000 direct beneficiaries over six years, but it’s multiplier effect will surely touch many more across Niger Delta. For the six states of Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Ondo IFAD funded has already taken root, we have seen results that are nothing short of inspiring 10 local government areas per state, 10 communities per LGA , each one a testament to the possibilities when we cultivate the right partnership and persevere in the face of challenges.

“With this launch, we are now taking that success story to three more states: Akwa Ibom, Imo and Rivers. In doing so, we are reaffirming our commitment to ensuring that our youth and women not only participate in the economy but lead the charge – building businesses that uplift their families, their communities and their futures. We call on all stakeholders to embrace this initiative wholeheartedly , to nurture it as their own. For , like any good farmer knows, the harvest is richest when the seeds are sown with care.

“The partnership with IFAD is a strong vine, one that will continue to grow and bear fruit. With IFAD’s investment of U$60 million and NDDC’s contribution of $30 million, we are fertilizing the ground for a brighter future.

“As we step forward into this new phase , let us remember that true success is measured not just in numbers but in the lives transformed. We will closely monitor this project , engage with local stakeholders, respect the cultural tapestry that makes the Niger Delta unique and ensure that we remain grounded in the principles of community and collaboration.”