The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is taking significant steps to support small-holder farmers in enhancing food security and promoting youth employment. Executive Director, Projects, Victor Antai, recently visited farms in Akwa Ibom State to assess the agricultural potential of the region and encourage the transition to mechanized farming methods.

During the visit, Antai highlighted the NDDC’s commitment to purchasing modern farming equipment like tractors to support initiatives such as the ‘Holistic Opportunities, Projects, and Engagement’ (HOPE) project. This project aims to create employment opportunities for youths, with a focus on agriculture, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

In collaboration with the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, the NDDC is working towards ensuring food security in the Niger Delta region. Antai emphasized the region’s suitability for growing various crops and vegetables multiple times within a farming season, thanks to its arable wetlands and favorable ecological factors.

The NDDC is shifting its focus from the oil economy to the agricultural sector, aiming to engage youths on a larger scale. The second phase of the youth empowerment program under ‘Project HOPE’ will concentrate on commercial agriculture, information and communication technology, and support for the creative industry.

At a farm in Akwa Ibom State, the Chairman of the Commercial Farmers Association, Aniebet Antia, highlighted the lack of capital as a major obstacle to commercial farming. Proper funding could enable small-holder farmers to significantly contribute to food production in the country.

The NDDC team also visited Asuakak Farms, managed by young farmer Mr. Kufre Joseph, who cultivates a variety of crops including cassava, cabbage, cucumber, carrots, tomatoes, and pepper. This initiative aims to showcase the potential of agriculture in the region and create opportunities for youth in the agricultural sector.

By supporting small-holder farmers and promoting mechanized farming methods, the NDDC is not only enhancing food security but also encouraging youth employment and economic growth in the Niger Delta region.