Abuja: The Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises-Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project has been hailed as a success story in empowering youths and women through technology-driven agribusiness across the nine Niger Delta states. Dr. Sanni Abiodun, the National Project Coordinator, highlighted the project’s impact during the Sixth Joint Supervision Mission in Asaba, Delta State.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the primary stakeholders in the project include the Federal Government, Federal Ministry of Finance, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, along with donors such as the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Abiodun expressed that numerous communities are eager to benefit from the program, which has significantly enhanced the livelihoods of participants.
Abiodun urged beneficiaries to apply their learnings and resources effectively, noting that being exemplary ambassadors could attract further funding. The project aims to expand to more communities, providing opportunities for additional youths and women. Sustainability plans are in place to ensure continued business growth and job creation post-project, involving Community Affairs Development Associations and various enterprise groups.
Dr. Ehimhen Eigbe, Director of Agriculture and Fisheries at NDDC, shared satisfaction with the field supervision, noting visible evidence of the project’s impact. He emphasized the potential for replicating such projects to reduce food costs and engage more youths in farming. The enthusiasm observed among the youth participants underscores the project’s success and potential for future expansion.
Benigho Wategire, National Environmental and Climate Change Specialist for LIFE-ND, discussed the project’s technological innovations aimed at reducing production costs and enhancing productivity. Notably, the introduction of Black Soldier Fly Lava Production has significantly decreased feed costs for poultry and fish farmers, improving their business sustainability.
The beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the program’s support and called for increased funding to expand their businesses further. The LIFE-ND project, sponsored by the Federal and state governments, financed by IFAD, and supported by NDDC, continues to make strides in agribusiness development. The supervision team visited various project sites, including Agbor Obi and Ekuma Abavo communities in Delta State’s Ika South Local Government Area.