In a major stride toward agricultural transformation in the Niger Delta, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), has reiterated its commitment to sustainable livelihoods through the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises for the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) Project.
Speaking at the model fish hatchery facility during her one day working visit to Cross River State, IFAD Country Director, Ms DEDE EKOUE informed stakeholders, incubators, incubatees, students, and government officials as they gathered to celebrate the tangible outcomes of the initiative aimed at wealth creation, food security, and youth empowerment.
Also, speaking at the event, the Cross River State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation development Mr. Johnson A. Ebokpo Jr emphasized that the State has adopted the IFAD assisted LIFE-ND Project methodology as a cornerstone for agribusiness development. He thank the IFAD Country Director for finding Cross River State worthy to participate in the Project interventions and site the model fish hatchery in Cross River State. He praised the National Project Coordinator (NPC) Engr Dr Sanni Abiodun for his capacity, vision, and dedication, noting that the NPC’s leadership role had been pivotal to the project’s success in the region. The Commissioner assured the IFAD Country Director of the State’s sustained commitment, particularly in fulfilling counterpart funding obligations.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation development also, addressed the audience, stressing that “the adoption of this innovative model is key to transforming the agricultural and agribusiness landscape.” He thanked the IFAD assisted LIFE-ND team and reaffirmed that the Government would continue to champion initiatives that empower youths and women across the State.
The Permanent Secretary for Ministry of International Donor Corporation, Bar. Anthony Effiom, who represented the Commissioner for MIDC Mr. H. Lukpata welcomed the IFAD COUNTRY Director, her team and LIFE-ND, noting that her presence signaled genuine interest in the project’s outcomes. He encouraged beneficiaries to seize the opportunity, stressing that the project represents a promising future for inclusive development. “Let us not despise the days of small beginnings,” he said, assuring IFAD Country Director of the continuous payment of Counter-fund obligations as at when due.
Also lending his voice, the Programme Manager of the Cross River Agricultural Development Programme (CRADP) Mr. Bassey Emogor, applauded the IFAD Country Director, Ms DEDE EKOUE and the Commissioner’s leadership. He recognized the uniqueness of the LIFE-ND implementation model and recommended a review of operational modalities to further strengthen ADP’s supportive role for sustainability of project outcomes.
As emphasis , the IFAD Country Director commended the Cross River State Government for its timely and consistent fulfilment of counterpart funding obligations, stating that this commitment played a significant role in the IFAD Executive Board’s approval of Phase 2 of the LIFE-ND Project. She described Cross River as a “model of partnership and accountability,” noting that the state’s performance was instrumental in building donor confidence.
“The ownership of these facilities and the extraordinary capacity being built are already yielding massive deliverables,” she noted. “The LIFE-ND Project is about people, partnerships, and purpose. With Cross River’s unwavering support, we are confident that the second phase will deliver even greater results.”
She further highlighted the project’s focus on strengthening the capacities of smallholder farmers and agripreneurs, especially among women and youths, emphasizing that agriculture must be seen and treated as a viable business.
In a moment of inspiration, a student of the University of Calabar undergoing student industrial work experience scheme Miss Sarah, while speaking on behalf of her colleagues, expressed enthusiasm in pursuing agribusiness entrepreneurship and keeping the flag flying. Sarah expressed gratitude for the new infrastructure and appealed for further youth empowerment opportunities. For her articulate representation of youth voices, she was named Youth Ambassador for Agribusiness by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation development Mr. Johnson A Ebokpo Jr.
Another incubatee, Confidence, thanked the Country Director and her entourage for the consistent outreach and encouragement, emphasizing that the knowledge and resources shared through LIFE-ND have changed their mindset and orientation about agriculture. She noted that this had given a renewed vigor to a Livelihood in agriculture.
As closing remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation development Mr Johnson A. Ebokpo Jr reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting youth-led agribusiness, hinting a forthcoming Youth in Agriculture Programme to be implemented in collaboration with IFAD assisted Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises for Niger Delta (LIFE ND) Project, Universities, and development partners. “Agriculture is a business,” he affirmed, “and young people must be supported across the value chain—from production to processing and marketing.”
As the ceremony moved to the commissioning of Open market stalls, solar powered borehole and toilet at Uruandung Akpabuyo LGA, stakeholders left with renewed resolve to deepen collaboration and sustain the momentum. The LIFE-ND Project continues to stand as a beacon of inclusive growth, proving that with the right partnerships, the Niger Delta’s agricultural potential can be fully realized.
