News in Brief:
– A $97 million agricultural initiative has been launched in the Niger Delta to empower 22 million youth and boost food security through targeted investment in key farming sectors and an innovative incubation model.
– The project, a collaboration between the NDDC, IFAD, and state governments, prioritises sustainable development and inclusive growth, benefiting rural communities and vulnerable groups.
A substantial $97 million agricultural development project has been launched in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, aiming to transform the livelihoods of 22 million young people and bolster the nation’s food security.
The Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND), is a collaborative effort between the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
It includes the support of participating state governments as the partnership seeks to stimulate economic growth and empower a generation.
Strategic investments in key agricultural sectors
Fundamentally, the initiative targets key agricultural sectors, focusing on commodities like fisheries, cassava, poultry, and oil palm.
Consequently, each participating state will specialise in specific areas, allowing for focused development and maximising regional strengths.
For example, Akwa Ibom State will concentrate on oil palm, fisheries, cassava, and poultry production. Rivers will focus on fishing, plantain and cassava, while Imo will undertake Rice, fishery and poultry ventures. The initiative capitalises on existing capacities in these sectors.
The project also aligns with Nigeria’s broader agricultural development goals, including the Green Alternative Roadmap (launched in 2016) and the national strategy for youth empowerment and job creation.
Empowering vulnerable groups and fostering inclusive growth
Meantime, LIFE-ND is designed to be inclusive, prioritising opportunities for rural youth, women-headed households, and persons with disabilities.
A core element of the project is its innovative incubation model. This scheme provides comprehensive training and support to participants before equipping them with the necessary resources to launch their agricultural enterprises. The initial phase involves 350 trainees (incubatees) and 32 incubators, ensuring a structured and supportive pathway to success.
Overall, project coordinators expressed confidence that this model will foster sustainable growth and prevent the misallocation of resources.
