The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has launched a partnership with communities in the Niger Delta region to empower 4,500 rice and cassava farmers. This initiative aims to promote food security in the region and the country at large.
According to Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of NDDC, this program is part of President Bola Tinubu’s effort to empower the people of the Niger Delta and promote food security in Nigeria. The flagship agricultural initiative will provide support to smallholder rice and cassava farmers through data, financing, farm inputs, mechanization, and extension services.
The program aims to produce 12,000 tonnes of paddy rice and 10,500 tonnes of cassava tubers in its pilot phase. It will also connect farmers to markets, provide off-taking, and help them build performance and credit records to access commercial financing. The initiative will also catalyze investment in agricultural infrastructure, addressing challenges such as land preparation and storage.
NDDC Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mrs. Winifred Madume, described the project as a significant boost to agricultural activities and the economic well-being of the people in the region.