Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said that a stronger partnership and collaboration between the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and host states in the planning and implementation of programmes and policies remains the most effective way of developing the region.
Fubara disclosed this in Port Harcourt during the official launch of the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises-Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) for Akwa Ibom, Imo and Rivers states, which was done by the NDDC in collaboration with the Federal Government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
The governor, who was represented at the event by his special adviser on Civil Society Relations, Hon Prince Achor, described agriculture as a major area of concentration of his administration.
He said, “Agriculture is a major area of concentration of the present administration in Rivers State. Just few days ago, the governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, inaugurated the board of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency (RSIPA) to drive investment and economic development in the state, with focus on agriculture.
“It is important for the NDDC to partner with its host communities and states, especially in realisation of the role state governments play in the Land Use Act,” he said.
The governor expressed delight over the conception of the programme and the successful launch of its second phase that includes Rivers State, assuring that the state government would support its implementation.
The NDDC managing director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said that the LIFE-ND programme aligns with the efforts of President Tinubu’s administration, which recently declared a state of emergency on agriculture.
Ogbuku said: “Today’s launch of the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises – Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) Project for the three NDDC-funded states of Akwa Ibom, Imo and Rivers, is more than a ceremony; it is a bold leap into the boundless world of agribusiness.
“This project is not just ploughing through the fields of agribusiness. It is breaking new ground, cultivating opportunities for wealth and stability. And as we launch this initiative, we are ushering in new possibilities.
“In the past, agribusiness seemed out of reach for many. But today, we bridge that gap, opening the doors to entrepreneurship, financial independence, and sustainable livelihoods.
“The NDDC proudly stands as a co-sponsor of this initiative, alongside the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, with the steadfast support of IFAD.”
