From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
In continuation of its Life- Niger Delta (L-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 colaboratation with the Imo State government at the weekend in Owerri the State capital.
The project aimed at sustaining food security, young entrepreneurs, women and the physically challenged, according to the National project Coordinator of L-ND, Abiodun Sanni who addressed the beneficiaries during a two days 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.
State Coordinator of the project, Mrs Victoria Igboanugo during her speech thanked Governor Hope Uzodimma for payment of the counterpart fund that facilitated it.
While the State Commissioner for Agriculture and food security, Cosmos Maduba who represented the governor at the occasion vowed to ensure the consistency of the government’s support for the project.