630 Youth Graduate from LIFE-ND Agricultural Training in Cross River, Receive Starter Packs
By Missang AKPET
630 youths have completed training in various agricultural value chains under the IFAD/NDDC-assisted Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND), project in Cross River State.
The incubatees, trained in cassava and rice production, fishery, and poultry farming, received cash grants, fertilizers, spray pumps, and other starter packs.
Speaking at at a graduation ceremony held in Calabar., Cross River State LIFE-ND Program Coordinator, Mr. Innocent Ogbin, said the beneficiaries were drawn from 10 communities across 10 local government areas in the state.
He said the program was designed to turn them into entrepreneurs and employers of labor who can contribute to the state and national economy.
The National Coordinator of IFAD/NDDC LIFE-ND, Dr. Sani Abiodun said the project aims to curb youth restiveness by boosting incomes and food security through job creation for rural women and youth in the Niger Delta.
“What is given to you today is a seed that should grow into multiples when used judiciously”.
“Our aim is to prove that through agriculture, the youths of the Niger Delta can show capacity."
"Cross River has always been a pioneer state. I want to see you all building businesses worth millions soon" Abiodun said.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Mr. Johnson Ebokpo Jnr., represented by his Permanent Secretary Elder Odey Ikongha, urged the graduates to treat the support as a business opportunity, not a handout.
“Agriculture is a business, not just subsistence farming, Produce to sell, improve productivity, and grow the local economy."
"Success requires patience, consistency, and commitment" he said.
Some beneficiaries who spoke with Newsmen hinted that LIFE-ND had equipped them with life-sustaining skills and the tools to become agrobusiness owners.
They described the program as a rare opportunity and pledged to put the support to proper use.
