Agro-empowerment: NDDC trains Niger deltans

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing agriculture and ensuring food security in the Niger Delta, following the launch of a youth and women empowerment program.

In a statement from Director of Corporate Affairs Seledi Thompson-Wakama, the NDDC announced the initiation of training for women and youth in livestock farming and agro-processing in Amukpe, Delta State.

Monday Igbuya, the Delta State representative on the NDDC board, linked the program to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing the agency’s role in enhancing food security and agricultural development in the region. He urged state governments in the Niger Delta to follow suit, highlighting that agricultural empowerment could mitigate unrest.

Participants were encouraged to fully engage in the training and utilize their starter packs to invest in agriculture. Winifred Madume, NDDC’s Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, emphasized the importance of livestock farming in addressing food insecurity, job creation, and poverty reduction, urging trainees to apply their new skills to transform the agricultural landscape.

Dr. Simon Akhaine, the project consultant, noted that 200 women and youth would receive training in livestock and agro-businesses. He commended the NDDC for its initiatives and assured participants they would be given starter packs to help them achieve self-sufficiency and enhance food security in the region.