A total of 630 young people, women, and persons with disabilities in Edo State have begun orientation for the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project — an agricultural empowerment programme collaboratively implemented by the Federal Government, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
The training, which kicked off on Tuesday, marks the beginning of a comprehensive capacity-building exercise designed to advance agribusiness, boost job creation, and strengthen food security in rural communities across Edo State.
During the launch event, Governor Monday Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to positioning Edo as a leading hub for modern agriculture and rural development.
Represented by Princewill Igbinedion, Head of the Edo Agricultural Development Programme, the governor explained that the LIFE-ND initiative aligns with his administration’s broader goal of empowering young farmers and transforming smallholder farming into sustainable, income-generating enterprises.
“With 630 incubatees currently enrolled, we are not merely training participants; we are nurturing a generation of innovators, leaders, and wealth creators who will propel Edo State toward agricultural self-sufficiency,” Okpebholo stated.
He further noted that the government is embedding LIFE-ND projects into its wider agricultural transformation agenda to guarantee continuity and sustainability beyond external funding.
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“Our government remains fully dedicated to supporting all LIFE-ND beneficiaries through access to improved inputs, extension services, value chain strengthening, and market linkages,” he added.
The governor expressed appreciation to IFAD and the Federal Government, through the NDDC, for their consistent collaboration, describing the partnership as a model example of inclusive agricultural development in Nigeria.
The Edo State Project Coordinator of LIFE-ND, John Omoruyi, acknowledged the strong political commitment of Governor Okpebholo’s administration to reinforce food systems and uplift rural youths through agribusiness. He revealed that extensive parcels of farmland have already been allocated to participants.
Similarly, the Agribusiness Promotion Coordinator, Anthonia Esenwa, urged trainees to take the exercise seriously, cautioning that individuals who fail to meet performance standards would be replaced.
The National Coordinator of LIFE-ND, Dr. Abiodun Sanni, represented by Justina Osaegwiwa, noted that while some communities initially hesitated to participate, increasing awareness and visible results have led to greater acceptance of the initiative.
Also addressing the participants, Clementina Osabuohien, a representative of the NDDC, advised beneficiaries to remain transparent and responsible with the funds provided, warning against the misuse of resources designated for agricultural development.
