The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is set to spearhead a significant push for agricultural development in the Niger Delta region, announcing plans to host a strategic retreat and a comprehensive agricultural summit. This initiative, spearheaded by NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, aligns directly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s emphasis on revitalizing the agricultural sector nationwide.
Dr. Ogbuku unveiled the plans during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Multi-Purpose Training Centre in Otuokpoti, Bayelsa State, emphasizing the NDDC’s commitment to translating the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda into tangible benefits for the Niger Delta. He highlighted that the planned retreat would be a collaborative effort, bringing together the NDDC and the governments of the Niger Delta states to foster regional integration in agriculture.
The ultimate goal is to develop a comprehensive master plan that leverages the unique agricultural strengths of each state in the region, promoting food security and reducing reliance on imports. Ogbuku lamented the decline in local crop production, citing the example of cocoyams in Ogbia Local Government Area, and stressed the need to revive these traditional crops.
The NDDC’s commitment extends beyond planning, with ongoing initiatives such as training programs for women and youths in livestock farming and agro-processing. The Commission is also partnering with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to provide apprenticeship opportunities for residents of the Niger Delta. Furthermore, the NDDC is actively engaging with stakeholders to foster a collaborative environment for development in the region. This multi-pronged approach aims to transform the Niger Delta into a thriving agricultural hub, contributing to food security and economic prosperity for its residents.
