FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Edo State Coordinator, Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprise, Niger Delta, LIFE-ND, Mr John Omoruyi has disclosed that the allocation of N1.6 billion as counterpart funding for LIFE-ND Plus programme would create over 2,000 jobs in the agricultural sector.
Speaking to newsmen yesterday in Benin on the impact and activities of the initiative, Omoruyi hailed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s allocation of N70 billion to agriculture in the 2025 budget.
He noted that the investment would significantly address poverty and empower rural communities.
Omoruyi explained that LIFE-ND programme is a collaborative effort co-funded by the federal government, Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, in partnership with the Edo State government.
Omoruyi stated that the initiative is being implemented across nine states in the Niger Delta region, with the primary aim of stimulating rural economies through agri-business.
“Women and youths aged 18 to 35 are trained and supported using an incubation model similar to the Igbo apprenticeship system, where trainees eventually establish their own businesses.
“This approach ensures that each participant becomes an entrepreneur in agricultural business, enhancing household productivity, income and nutrition.
“Currently, the LIFE-ND initiative operates in 10 local government areas in Edo State, but with the governor’s intervention, the remaining eight local governments will also be included,” he said.
According to him, this extension, will generate over 2,000 jobs and bolster food security across the state.
