From INIOBONG SUNDAY, Uyo
Network Advancement Programme for Poverty and Disaster Risk Reduction, NAPPDRR, has expressed commitment to intervene in mitigating the scourge of hunger, poverty, unemployment and environmental degradation caused by years of oil exploration in the Niger Delta.
Speaking yesterday in an interview in Uyo on the scheme slated to kick off in June, Executive Director of NAPPDRR, Emem Edoho explained that the intervention became necessary in view of the widespread underdevelopment in the oil and gas host communities.
“We are set to empower oil and gas host communities in Akwa Ibom State through the Empower2Sustain initiative, a flagship programme under the Green The Future Climate and Environmental Justice Initiative,” he assured.
Edoho disclosed that the project would be funded by an international agency, Global Greengrants Fund, GGF, through the recommendation of Oilwatch Africa, OA, in Nigeria,” adding that “the project aims to build resilience, promote agroecology and enhance food sovereignty in the region.
“The key objectives of the action is to foster sustainable agricultural practices that prioritise ecological principles, diversity and nutrient cycling to enhance resilience and food security.
“We hope to strengthen the capacity of host communities to cope with climate-related shocks and stressors, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and improved well-being.
“Support communities in defining their own food and agricultural systems, prioritising safe, nutritious and culturally appropriate food production.
By this intervention, we hope to achieve enhanced access to nutritious food and improved outcomes for vulnerable populations.”
Edoho assured that the scheme would have significant impact on the lives of the rural poor and other vulnerable groups around Akwa Ibom State, particularly in the oil and gas host communities.
