…Reaffirm Commitment To Sustainable Expansion Of Agric Initiative
By Edward Oseghe
The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to sustaining and expanding the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project — a joint initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Jerry Uwangue, stated this on Tuesday in Benin City during the wrap-up of the 5th Joint Supervision Mission of the FGN/NDDC/IFAD LIFE-ND Project.
He said the eight-day mission marked another milestone in the collective efforts of partners to enhance rural livelihoods through agribusiness development, youth empowerment, and food systems transformation across the Niger Delta region.
Dr. Uwangue reaffirmed Edo’s collaboration with IFAD and NDDC under the proposed LIFE-ND Plus Initiative, designed to consolidate achievements and extend project benefits to more communities and beneficiaries.
“Agriculture remains central to Edo State’s economic diversification agenda. We are committed to strengthening food systems, promoting value addition, and creating market opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses,” he said.
Representing Mrs. Dede Ekoue, IFAD Country Director in Nigeria, Dr. Ogunniyi Adebayo, Country Programme Analyst, described LIFE-ND as more than a development intervention but “a movement of hope, resilience, and transformation for young Nigerians.”
He commended the innovation and enterprise displayed by beneficiaries across the region, noting that the project continues to unlock productivity among youths and women.
“From our field visits, LIFE-ND stands as a living testimony of how targeted investments in youth and women can transform communities. IFAD remains committed to scaling this success through additional financing,” Adebayo said.
Also speaking, the National Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, Dr. Abiodun Sanni, said the mission provided an opportunity to assess progress, share lessons, and strengthen sustainability strategies.
“The LIFE-ND Project has proven to be a model of partnership — empowering youths and women, building viable agribusinesses, and promoting inclusive rural transformation,” he stated, identifying access to finance and climate resilience as key priorities going forward.
In his closing remarks, Edo State Project Coordinator, Mr. John Omoruyi, expressed appreciation to the Mission Team for their professionalism, dedication, and constructive feedback, noting that their insights would strengthen project delivery and sustainability.
“Your guidance will enhance our implementation strategies and long-term impact,” Omoruyi said, reaffirming Edo’s commitment to implementing agreed action points with renewed vigour and accountability.
The mission brought together representatives of the FGN, NDDC, IFAD, and participating states to review project performance, engage beneficiaries, and chart a roadmap for the next phase of the LIFE-ND initiative.
